Cricket match next to Murrayfield Stadium abandoned due to 'abuse from football fans'

Police are investigating after a cricket match near Murrayfield was abandoned after players were allegedly abused from fans attending a Rangers and Manchester United match.

The game between Murrayfield DAFS and Stewart’s Melville Cricket Club was called off on Saturday amid what the home side described as “a combination of sexist, homophobic and racist abuse” – alongside allegations that players were assaulted.

The East of Scotland Cricket Association Division Seven tie was taking place at Roseburn Park ahead of the friendly between Rangers and Manchester United at nearby Murrayfield.

Murrayfield DAFS claimed the abuse was carried out by “so-called football fans” in the area.

In a statement posted on X, the club wrote: “Very upset that our 4th team had to abandon their game today due to a combination of sexist, homophobic and racist abuse at Roseburn Park outside Murrayfield Stadium today against Stewart’s Melville Cricket Club.

“Not only that, there were two instances of physical assault that were perpetrated on players. The perpetrators of said abuse were fans of football clubs playing a friendly at Murrayfield Stadium – and police were standing 50 yards away.”

In a post on the club’s Facebook page, Phil Yelland, the president of Murrayfield DAFS, added: “There was no indication in advance that playing today would be an issue, but some of the so-called fans at the Rangers v Manchester United game at Murrayfield today behaved in a totally unacceptable way in Roseburn Park.

“Players playing any sport in a public space should be able to do so without fear of violence and without homophobic and racial abuse and other anti-social behaviour. One of our players has made a report to the police, which is being followed through. Those involved in organising the event at Murrayfield have been contacted and a range of concerns expressed. Those involved in the local community have been alerted.

“We can’t turn back the clock, but the club will seek answers about why we could not play our game safely.”

Stewart’s Melville Cricket Club said it was “very disappointed” about the experience, and commended all players for how they dealt with the “unacceptable situation”.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Officers are carrying out enquiries after reports of abuse being directed towards players during a cricket match at Roseburn Park, Edinburgh on Saturday.”