Ex-Coach’s Sick Abuse Sparks Calls for ECB to Launch Sheldon-Style Investigation
Michael Strange, a disgraced former Durham junior coach and scout, is at the centre of fresh outrage after a victim accused him of repeated sexual abuse – with no support from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The victim, known only as ‘David’ for legal reasons, wants the ECB to launch a full-scale probe like the football world’s Sheldon Report.
Serial Abuser Michael Strange’s Shocking Record
Strange, 62, has repeatedly preyed on young cricketers over decades. He pleaded guilty in 2015 to indecent assault against David and was jailed for three years in 2016. But that was just part of his horrific history.
- 2012: Received six years for abusing three boys in the 1990s.
- 2020: Sentenced to four and a half years for assaulting another boy.
- 2024: Added 40 months for two further indecent assaults.
David believes Strange and others like him have “operated in clubs across the country,” leaving more victims unheard.
Why David Wants a Sheldon-Style Review for Cricket
After former footballers exposed abuse by coaches like Barry Bennell and Bob Higgins, the Football Association launched the Sheldon Report in 2021. It unearthed grave failings, stating warning signs were “ignored due to ignorance and naivety.”
But the ECB opted out of such a deep dive in 2017, relying instead on a limited internal review and never looked specifically at Strange’s crimes.
“I think it would be beneficial to hold a Sheldon-style review,” David said. “The publicity might encourage others to speak out – that’s better than nothing.”
ECB Responds but Faces Criticism Over Lack of Action
Durham County Cricket Club declined to comment. The ECB confirmed Strange was banned from cricket activities in 2006 but claimed they had no knowledge of his later offences, which were “handled by the police.”
An ECB spokesperson said: “We are deeply disturbed by the abuse David suffered. Nobody should ever have to go through what he did. We are working with statutory agencies to compile a detailed chronology where possible.”
The ECB highlighted its safeguarding measures, including dedicated teams across clubs, and promised a new safeguarding strategy soon, incorporating many Sheldon Report recommendations – some already underway before the report was published.
Where to Get Help
Anyone with concerns is urged to contact their club or county safeguarding officer, the ECB Safeguarding team, or the NSPCC child protection helpline on 0808 800 5000.
