Hampshire Cricket have announced that New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club after incorporating feedback from staff and supporters.
The initial selection of Kuggeleijn for the County Championship match against Warwickshire was made on Tuesday without a formal announcement via social media channels.
The decision prompted significant criticism online, leading the county to withdraw Kuggeleijn from their final four games less than an hour before Wednesday’s match began.
Kuggeleijn, 34, previously faced a rape charge in 2015 and was acquitted following a retrial in 2017.
The player was reportedly present at the Utilita Bowl for the first day of the fixtures.
“After careful consideration and reflecting on input from our community, we confirm Scott Kuggeleijn will not be involved with the club,” stated Hampshire in an official release.
The organization emphasized its appreciation for fan engagement and highlighted its commitment to focusing on the remaining County Championship fixtures.
Seam bowler Kuggeleijn, who spent 12 years with Northern Districts in New Zealand, has also played three Test matches, two one-day internationals, and 18 T20s for the Black Caps.
Hampshire currently occupy the bottom position in County Championship Division One with 86 points, 16 points behind second-last Leicestershire.
The team has secured only two red-ball victories this season across six losses and three draws.
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