The Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) has acknowledged that it could have done more to mark Remembrance Sunday on its social media channels, after receiving a complaint from a member.
The players’ union admitted to ESPNcricinfo that not recognising the centenary of Armistice Day on its Twitter feed was “an oversight” but insisted that “in no way should it be interpreted as disrespectful to our members who were involved in the armed forces”.
They also pointed out that staff were busy helping PCA members – the organisation helps many former players who have fallen on hard times – and that they would always want to recognise such an event in a meaningful way and not just in a tweet.
It comes after David Smith, the former Leicestershire and Northamptonshire chief executive who also played for Warwickshire, said he was “ashamed” of what he believes was the PCA’s failure to mark Remembrance Day.
In an email sent to PCA chairman, Matthew Wheeler, and seen by ESPNcricinfo, Smith registered his “grave disappointment” in the absence of any output on the organisation’s social media channels. By contrast, the Twitter accounts of both the Rugby Players’ Association and the Professional Footballers’ Association put out posts to mark the day.
“I find myself yet again compelled to write to you, this time to express my grave disappointment at the fact the PCA did not recognise Remembrance Day on our website or social media platforms,” Smith said. “There are ceremonies worldwide to mark the centenary of the Armistice.
“Almost 150 county cricketers have given their lives in armed conflict since 1881. More than 100 died in WWI including three England players. Frankly not recognising our cricketers who gave their lives is an absolute disgrace. I’m really ashamed of our organisation.
“For goodness sake get a grip. You’re supposed to be directing us. You have taken us to an all-time low. By way of comparison the Rugby Players’ Association tweeted ‘Lest we Forget’ at 11am.”
Smith qualifies for PCA membership as a former Warwickshire player. He also represented England Under-19s, Under-25s and England A, before serving on the ECB cricket committee. He has been an extremely vocal critic of the PCA in recent months and has resisted suggestions that he might be suited to serving on its board.
The England team did recognise the day. They held a two-minute silence at the team hotel in Kandy with Joe Root, the England captain, addressing the players, coaches and traveling media to remind them that none of them would enjoy the life they lead today without the sacrifice of previous generations.
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