Cricketer's rape trial set for 2028 amid court backlogs

A cricketer accused of raping a woman twice in Brixton will not face trial until January 2028, nearly four years after the alleged offences. Robin Das, 24, appeared at Inner London Crown Court on Friday where a trial date was set for January 10, 2028. The delay was attributed by the judge to significant backlogs within the criminal justice system.

Judge Freya Newbery told the court that the system is struggling to cope with the volume of cases. "I'm afraid we are all just really under the cosh at the moment," she said, as reported by The Standard. "We are overwhelmed with new cases and we can't fit our custody cases within the time limits."

Player suspended by club

Das, a right-handed batter for Essex County Cricket Club, has been suspended by the club while legal proceedings are ongoing. He appeared in court wearing a navy suit, white shirt, and dark tie, speaking only to confirm his identity and acknowledge the next court date. He was granted conditional bail.

Essex County Cricket Club previously stated in a release that the club had remained in contact with the ECB, PCA, the Cricket Regulator, and the player regarding the matter. This included an immediate and ongoing suspension. The club indicated it would continue to follow all appropriate legal processes and guidance.