McKinney Report Raises Concerns over Sexism and Inequality in Cricket Scotland
Former Cricket Scotland chair Tony Brian has expressed “serious concerns” over the McKinney Report, which has highlighted a “high degree of prejudice towards female staff and players” within the organization. Brian, who led Cricket Scotland from 2015 to 2022, acknowledged the unhappiness among some staff but questioned the report’s conclusions and methodology.
The McKinney Report, an independent assessment conducted by a Scottish HR firm, found that “antiquated attitudes and behavior towards women in the game are still prevalent, particularly at club level.” However, Brian argued that the report’s conclusions were based on limited feedback from current and former staff, and that it lacked investigative rigor.
He pointed out that the review excluded some former staff and relied on a “Neutral Assessment” methodology that did not involve formal investigations. Brian also disputed the report’s contention that Cricket Scotland had neglected women’s cricket, citing significant growth in participation and performance standards since 2016.
Brian further refuted claims that an investigation into allegations made in 2021 was “botched,” stating that it was conducted thoroughly by a qualified panel. Despite Brian’s concerns, Cricket Scotland CEO Trudy Lindblade described the McKinney Report as “a damning indictment” and apologized for the organization’s treatment of female staff and players.
The McKinney Report comes two years after Cricket Scotland was found to be institutionally racist by another independent review, “Changing The Boundaries.” That report led to the resignation of the entire Cricket Scotland board. The McKinney Report’s nine recommendations focus on addressing general behaviors, sexism, and misogyny within the organization.
