Hampshire Drop Scott Kuggeleijn, Cricketer Acquitted in Rape Trial, After Backlash

Hampshire County Cricket Club has made an abrupt U-turn on its decision to bring in New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn, bowing to significant fan and staff backlash. The club confirmed on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, that Kuggeleijn would not represent them in the Rothesay County Championship after his inclusion in the squad sparked outrage across social media. Brydon Carse Handcuffed by Police in Derby Nightclub Incident, ECB Launches Investigation (Video).

Statement from Hampshire Cricket

A statement from Hampshire Cricket. pic.twitter.com/S2Zf6dyqZw

— Hampshire Cricket (@hantscricket) September 2, 2026

The 34-year-old fast bowler, who was charged with sexual violation by rape and indecent assault in 2015, was acquitted in 2017 following a second trial after the first ended with a hung jury. Despite his acquittal, Kuggeleijn's past has consistently drawn protests whenever he has been selected for New Zealand or domestic teams.

The Controversial Signing

Hampshire had quietly listed Kuggeleijn in their 15-player squad for the County Championship Division One fixture against Warwickshire, scheduled to begin on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, in Southampton. The signing, made for the final four matches of the season, was not formally announced by the club. This 'sneaky ploy,' as some reports described it, was met with immediate and fierce criticism from both Hampshire supporters and the wider cricket community.

Fans took to social media platforms, describing the club's decision as "a disgrace," "shameful," and "a new low for the club." The strong negative reaction, coupled with suggestions of a potential fan boycott of the match, appears to have forced the club's hand.

Hampshire Club Response

In a statement released approximately 35 minutes before the scheduled start of play – which was delayed due to bad weather – Hampshire Cricket announced their reversal. "Having reflected and listened to feedback from our staff and supporters, Hampshire Cricket can confirm that Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club," the statement read. The club added, "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." Auqib Nabi Joins Surrey for Three County Championship Matches in 2026.

This incident is not the first time Kuggeleijn's selection has ignited public outrage. In 2019, spectators at Auckland's Eden Park held up '#MeToo' posters during a T20 series against Sri Lanka to protest his inclusion in the New Zealand team. Former New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White had previously stated that the national body "respected the court process and were not in the business of relitigating past events" when Kuggeleijn made his international debut.

Hampshire currently sits at the bottom of the Division One table, battling to retain their top-flight status. The club's focus will now shift to its on-field performance in the remaining crucial fixtures without the controversial overseas signing.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 02, 2026 07:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).