A cricketer accused of rape in south London will not stand trial until 2028 - nearly four years after the alleged offence - as a judge warned criminal courts are “overwhelmed” by backlogs.

Robin Das, 24, is alleged to have raped a woman twice in Brixton, south London, in March 2024.

At Inner London Crown Court on Friday, Judge Freya Newbery set a trial date of January 10, 2028, telling the court the criminal justice system was struggling to cope with the volume of cases.

“I’m afraid we are all just really under the cosh at the moment,” she said.

“We are overwhelmed with new cases and we can’t fit our custody cases within the time limits.”

The right-handed batter, who has been suspended by Essex while proceedings are ongoing, appeared in court wearing a navy suit, white shirt and dark tie.

He spoke only to confirm his identity and acknowledge the next court date.

The player, who made his Essex debut in 2020 aged 18, was granted conditional bail.is accused of raping a woman twice in Brixton, south London, in March 2024.

At Inner London Crown Court on Friday, Judge Freya Newbery set a trial date of January 10, 2028, telling the court the criminal justice system was struggling to cope with the volume of cases.

“I’m afraid we are all just really under the cosh at the moment,” she said.

“We are overwhelmed with new cases and we can’t fit our custody cases within the time limits.”

The right-handed batter, who has been suspended by Essex while proceedings are ongoing, appeared in court wearing a navy suit, white shirt and dark tie.

He spoke only to confirm his identity and acknowledge the next court date.

The player, who made his Essex debut in 2020 aged 18, was granted conditional bail.

In a previous statement, Essex County Cricket Club said: “The club has remained in contact with the ECB, PCA, the Cricket Regulator and the player with regard to the matter, which included an immediate and ongoing suspension.

“The club will continue to follow all appropriate legal processes and guidance.”