England fast bowler Ollie Robinson has apologised after historical tweets of a racist and sexist nature were revealed during his Test debut.
The posts were made in 2012 and 2013, when Robinson, now 27, was aged 18 and 19.
“I am embarrassed by the racist and sexist tweets that I posted over eight years ago, which have today become public,” said Robinson.
“I am sorry, and I have certainly learned my lesson today.”
Sussex’s Robinson took 2-50 on the opening day of the first Test against New Zealand at Lord’s.
However, during the day the historic tweets were discovered and shared online.
Reading a prepared statement at the close of play, Robinson added: “I want to make it clear that I’m not racist and I’m not sexist.
“I deeply regret my actions, and I am ashamed of making such remarks.”
England began the day by sharing a ‘moment of unity’ with New Zealand, the home side all wearing T-shirts designed to show a collective stance against discrimination of all kinds.
“I would like to unreservedly apologise to anyone I have offended, my team-mates and the game as a whole in what has been a day of action and awareness in combatting discrimination from our sport,” said Robinson.
“I don’t want something that happened eight years ago to diminish the efforts of my team-mates and the ECB as they continue to build meaningful action with their comprehensive initiatives and efforts, which I fully endorse and support.”
“I will continue to educate myself, look for advice and work with the support network that is available to me to learn more about getting better in this area.”
More to follow.
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