Azeem Rafiq's 'bracing' book on racism in cricket signed by Trapeze

Trapeze Books has signed It’s Not Banter, It’s Racism by Yorkshire cricketer and whistleblower Azeem Rafiq.

Shyam Kumar, previously commissioning editor of Trapeze non-fiction, acquired world rights from David Luxton at David Luxton Associates, with the book written in partnership with George Dobell. It will be published by new editorial director for non-fiction Katie Packer in hardback, e-book and audiobook, narrated by the author, on 4th May 2023.

On 16th November 2021, Rafiq stood before a parliamentary select committee to speak about the racist discrimination he experienced when he was playing cricket for his county. He described how between 2008 and 2018 he had been subjected to slurs, abuse and humiliation, while also being portrayed as a troublemaker. His employers dismissed his treatment as "friendly banter", leaving Rafiq completely isolated.

The publisher says Rafiq’s book provides “a bracing look at the moments that led up to and defined the watershed parliamentary meeting where Azeem stood up and courageously spoke out about his experiences of racism”.

Its synopsis continues: “It’s Not Banter, It’s Racism dives into the wider context of that fateful day. As well as interviewing the key figures involved in the case, Azeem and George will illustrate how the continual denial of racism is sending us backwards as a society.

“It is with great sensitivity and determination that Azeem will describe unpacking his own biases, while also building forgiveness and understanding with the communities he has impacted. Giving voice to the voiceless, Azeem’s book stands for accountability and honesty in a world that would prefer to cancel and silence.”

Rafiq, a British Asian cricketer who played professionally in England for Yorkshire County Cricket Club as a right arm off-spin bowler, said: “I’m very grateful for the chance to tell my story. I hope that, by sharing my experiences, I can give hope to others who have suffered from discrimination and shine a light on how tough things can be for those from minority groups. Most of all, I hope my story shows that, with perseverance, we can change things."

Packer said: “Azeem is completely genuine and despite all he has gone through, he remains so positive and hopeful. At Trapeze we want to start conversations and push for change which is exactly what Azeem lives and breathes. The book will be a thought-provoking and heartfelt antidote to a cancel culture society that would rather silence than listen. It’s an honour to work on the story with Azeem and George.”

Dobell said it has been a privilege to work with Rafiq over the past couple of years, adding: “He has a shocking but important story to tell [and] while the discrimination and intimidation he continues to experience are sadly far from unusual, his refusal to be silenced is. His bravery has provided an insight into cricket and society as a whole,” he said.