Rafiq, who spoke out against racism he experienced as a Yorkshire player, resulting in a fine and point deduction for the club, expressed concern in a Sunday newspaper column, stating “nothing had changed” since he first raised the issue 40 months ago.
Graves, who previously served as chair from 2012 to 2015, is reportedly in talks for a return, despite the club admitting to an ECB charge of failing to address systemic racism. Graves also sparked controversy for his comments on racism allegations last June.
“Maybe there is still time to act, still time to show some backbone, but it’s running out fast,” Rafiq wrote in the Observer.
Rafiq called on current sponsors to reconsider their support, questioning if Graves reflects their values and pointing out previous sponsors who distanced themselves from the club. He urged sponsors to act now to prevent Yorkshire from regressing.
In 2002, Graves provided a multimillion-pound loan to bail out the club, with a substantial amount still owed to the Graves Family Trust. Graves recently revealed that a new ownership offer had been accepted and his consortium was in exclusive negotiations until January 5. Depending on the outcome, club members may be asked to vote on his proposal at a meeting.
“I still believe that everyone deserves a second chance,” Rafiq said. “If Graves wants to lead the club and the game in a positive direction he can’t just say the right things, he needs to do the right things – not just words, but action.”
“He has to show he has accepted what has happened in the past, and is ready to take substantial action and offer clear direction now and when difficult decisions are necessary in the future. It is fair to say there has been no sign of any of this yet.”
