Hampshire have confirmed that New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club in their remaining County Championship matches following strong criticism from supporters and staff. The 34-year-old’s signing faced backlash due to his past rape trials in New Zealand. The club reversed its decision shortly before their match against Warwickshire.

Southampton, Sep 2: Hampshire has confirmed that New Zealand’s seam-bowling all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club in their remaining County Championship games following severe public and staff backlash over his signing in the ongoing season.

The county side faced intense criticism after naming Kuggeleijn, 34, in their squad for their County Championship fixture against Warwickshire at The Rose Bowl, despite not having formally announced him as an overseas player. It was a move the club’s supporters branded on social media as ‘shameful’ and ‘a disgrace’.

Kuggeleijn was tried twice for rape in New Zealand in 2016 and 2017 following an incident in 2015. After a jury failed to reach a verdict in the initial trial, he was acquitted in a second trial. His subsequent selections for New Zealand and domestic franchises have routinely drawn public protests.

Hampshire withdraws signing