Hampshire make U-turn on new signing after social media backlash
Hampshire have confirmed that New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn will not feature for the club, following widespread criticism over his signing.
Scott Kuggeleijn represented New Zealand in all three formats and signed for Hampshire for the rest of the County Championship season; Hampshire released a statement to confirm he would not play, following widespread criticism about his arrival
Hampshire have confirmed that New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn will not feature for the club, following widespread criticism over his signing.
Kuggeleijn was charged with sexual violation by rape and indecent assault in 2015, having pleaded not guilty. He was later acquitted after a second trial, following a hung jury in the first trial.
Hampshire listed Kuggeleijn in their squad for their Rothesay County Championship match against Warwickshire on Tuesday, beginning Wednesday, then confirmed later that day they had signed the 34-year-old for the final four matches of the season.
The signing immediately received a negative reaction on social media, with comments describing the moving as "disgusting" and "a new low for the club", leading to Hampshire announcing on Wednesday that he would not play.
"Having reflected and listened to feedback from our staff and supporters, Hampshire Cricket can confirm that Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club," a statement read.
"We value the passion of our fanbase and thank everyone who took the time to share their views. Our focus now turns to supporting the team through the final four County Championship fixtures of the season.
"We encourage everyone to unite behind the team as we enter a crucial stage of the campaign."
Kuggeleijn has represented New Zealand across all three formats and was initially signed as cover for Delano Potgieter, who was called up to South Africa A last month for their series against Bangladesh A.
He has featured in three Tests, two ODIs, and 18 IT20s for New Zealand, with Kuggeleijn playing first-class cricket for Northern Districts since 2014.
Hampshire are currently bottom of the Division One table with four matches remaining. After hosting Warwickshire, they travel to Nottinghamshire (September 8-11) and Leicestershire (September 15-18) before finishing their season at home to Sussex (September 24-27).
