Reports: USA Cricket sacks head coach Stuart Law following discrimination, favouritism allegations

Stuart Law. (Source – Getty Images)

USA Cricket has terminated the contract of head coach Stuart Law with immediate effect, following allegations of discrimination and favoritism from senior players, including captain Monank Patel. The sudden announcement comes after the team’s recent 10-wicket defeat against Scotland and makes a premature end to Law’s three-year contract signed in April 2024.

Law’s tenure, though brief, saw USA cricket achieve successes, including a remarkable victory over Pakistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup and advancement to the Super Eight stage, securing their spot in the next T20 World Cup.

According to a Cricbuzz report, tensions began escalating during the Netherlands tour, the USA’s first assignment after their World Cup campaign. The situation deteriorated to the point where 7-8 senior players, led by captain Monank, raised serious allegations against Law. The complaints were around discrimination, particularly regarding players of South Asian origin, who alleged preferential treatment toward other ethnicities.

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USA is second on the Cricket World Cup League Two ODI table

The controversy deepened during the recent Namibia tour, prompting USA Cricket to launch an official investigation into Law’s alleged misconduct. Despite initial attempts to mediate the situation, the growing split between the coach and players ultimately led to his dismissal.

Interestingly, the USA currently holds the second position in the Cricket World Cup League Two ODI table, with six wins and three losses. Assistant coach Vincent Vinay Kumar has been appointed as interim head coach, with former USA off-spinner Usman Rafiq joining as assistant coach for the remaining three ODIs against Nepal and Scotland.

One contentious point was the implementation of English as the common language during matches and team functions, a policy that faced backlash from some players who preferred communicating in their native languages. Following Iain Higgins’ resignation in December 2021, USA Cricket has cycled through four CEOs and three head coaches.