Cricket players' ban reduced after homophobic and racial slurs
Two Hawke's Bay cricket players banned for the season over racial and homophobic slurs are back on the cricket pitch.
The match between year 11-13 students was called off on January 21, after the two players made both racial and homophobic slurs towards the Western Districts XI, which had players of Sri Lankan, Indian and Pakistani heritage.
Hawke’s Bay Cricket Association (HBCA) did not name the players, but Stuff understands the pair are the sons of former Central Districts representatives Mike Pawson and Craig Findlay, who is chief executive of HBCA.
The initial ban was appealed and the pair are already back playing cricket. Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon has criticised the reduction in penalty and called for a restoration process.
What do you think of the ban?
Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”
We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?
Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.
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41.8% Yes
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32.1% Maybe?
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26.1% No
Brain Teaser of the Day 🧠✨ Can You Solve It? 🤔💬
How many balls of string does it take to reach the moon?
(Peter from Carterton kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Peter!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
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This FREE workshop series will provide you with information and advice on all the hard stuff from Rest homes to Funeral Planning!
Workshop Dates & Topics
11 February 2026
-Enduring Power of Attorney, PPPR & Wills
-Advanced Care Planning
-Funeral Planning
18 February 2026
-Ageing at Home & Community Support
-Housing options in Retirement
Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm with Lunch provided
Venue: Havelock North Function Centre - 30 Te Mata Road, Havelock North
Booking essential as numbers are limited. Call 068709060 or email hastings@ageconcernhb.co.nz to register.
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