Following France 24's investigation (see here) into claims that France Cricket has been fabricating the results of women's cricket matches in order to maintain its ICC funding, the Cricket Committee at Standard Athletic Club would like to share the following response with its members. (Also available as a PDF here)
November 2023
SAC Statement on Cricket Governance in France
As one of the clubs that helped found France Cricket, we wish to see the country’s governing
body work for the benefit of all to promote & develop our sport across the country, with full
transparency & accountability. This includes a renewed commitment to developing cricket beyond
the Paris/Ile de France region.
Like so many involved in cricket teams in France, we are saddened & dismayed by the recent
reports of irregularities & poor governance by France Cricket (link to France 24 report).
Judging by the facts reported in the France 24 article, it would appear the current leadership of
France Cricket is falling short in that mission. As such, we have no confidence in the current
leadership of France Cricket & look forward to a renewal of the leadership team with one that fully
reflects the geographical diversity of the membership.
We also call on the ICC to carry out a thorough investigation of France Cricket & all allegations of
fake matches, false declarations & player accreditations. We believe that there are enough
questions raised for the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit to intervene and to look into this matter and
help put French cricket back on the right track.
With one of the most diverse club memberships in France, we at SAC are baffled by the current
leadership’s response to these allegations. Neither France24’s report nor the allegations made
have cited anyone’s country of origin or ethnicity.
We are, like many other teams across France, passionate about supporting and developing the
game throughout this country & stand with those who share our values of working together to
ensure that this remains the case.
SAC Cricket Committee