An independent review has highlighted serious failings by Durham in addressing abuse allegations against former coach Michael Strange, who was convicted over a decade ago but whose victims and safeguarding policies were neglected.

Durham’s response to Strange’s offences was criticized for a lack of recognition and action, with no internal review of safeguarding procedures or victim support even more than 12 years after his initial conviction.

The review recommended developing a national policy for contact with abuse victims in cricket and urged clubs to review safeguarding policies after any safeguarding-related crimes.

Despite Strange's convictions, neither the club nor the county board took adequate steps to support victims or improve safeguarding, which is seen as a significant oversight.

The review noted that Strange’s abuse was not limited to Durham, with his misconduct during coaching at festivals outside Durham, and Northumbria Police estimate the true extent of his abuse may involve hundreds of instances.

Michael Strange, now 65, was convicted of 34 offences including indecent assault, rape, and gross indecency against 10 victims between 1993 and 2004, with police believing the actual number of abuse instances could be in the hundreds.

It also called for establishing a national policy for the ECB and Cricket Regulator to guide victim contact without compromising criminal investigations.

The review found that during Strange’s offending period, there was a lack of awareness or challenge from peers and Durham officials regarding his inappropriate behavior, such as sharing pornographic material with young players.

Strange’s connection to Durham was exploited to gain access to young players, and although his disqualification from cricket in 2006 was appropriate, poor communication allowed him to attend matches afterward.

While Strange’s offences did not occur after his disqualification, concerns remained about his continued presence at cricket matches, with incidents like a club umpire confronting him highlighting ongoing issues.

Gould acknowledged that policies have evolved but stressed the need for vigilance and prompt action to prevent future abuse, emphasizing the importance of learning from this case.

ECB chief executive Richard Gould emphasized the importance of safeguarding, expressed regret for the harm caused, and stated that the findings will inform ongoing improvements across cricket.