Hampshire pulls player from squad after backlash over acquittal

English county cricket side Hampshire withdrew New Zealand fast bowler Scott Kuggeleijn from a match on Wednesday after fans protested. He was acquitted of rape and indecent assault charges after two trials in 2016 and 2017.

Why it mattersThe rapid reversal shows how public pressure can force sports clubs to reconsider decisions involving players with contested legal histories.

AustraliaAustralian cricket fans know Kuggeleijn played Tests here; the incident highlights ongoing tension between sporting bodies and communities over player conduct and past allegations.

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