Cricket Scotland has initiated a formal investigation following the revelation that Khizar Ali, a member of its board, had previously posted tweets containing derogatory language. These tweets, dating back to 2012, include the use of the "P" word in reference to Pakistanis and other offensive remarks aimed at Indians.
Khizar Ali, who joined Cricket Scotland's board as a regional representative in May 2023, has come under scrutiny after these historic tweets resurfaced. Running out Racism, an organization dedicated to eliminating discrimination in cricket, has called for an urgent investigation into the matter. Ali has been involved with Running out Racism, adding a layer of complexity to the situation.
Controversial Tweets Surface
"There were recent screenshots shared of historic tweets from 2012 where I used the P word," Ali stated. "The reading of the word in full for some within the South Asian and cricketing communities will invoke and trigger upset. To anyone who has to read that and it caused upset, I want to extend my sincere apologies to you."
The controversy arrives at a particularly delicate time for Cricket Scotland, which underwent significant changes last year. An independent investigation revealed institutional racism within the governance of cricket in Scotland, identifying 448 examples of such practices. Following these findings, Cricket Scotland's board was completely overhauled, reflecting the organization’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment and tackling all forms of discrimination. "We are committed to ensuring that our sport is safe, welcoming, inclusive, and open to all. We are determined to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to racism, sexism, and all forms of unacceptable behaviour," said a Cricket Scotland spokesperson.
Reactions and Responsibility
Running out Racism has expressed dismay over the historic tweets by someone they once held in high regard. "We have been made aware of the historic tweets circulating in relation to Cricket Scotland board member and WDCU chair Khizar Ali, from 2012 which include comments regarding various racialised communities. This includes racially offensive terms, such as the P word on numerous occasions," stated a spokesperson for Running out Racism. "Members are surprised, dismayed and feel incredibly let down that someone we've a huge amount of respect for would use such words, in any context, at any point in history. This has caused upset and anger with some we support and represent. It is difficult at this stage to work beyond how people feel in the immediate term. However, we do acknowledge Khizar’s willingness to proactively own this, and appreciate the conversations he's engaged in directly with us and many others regarding these messages."
Ali has acknowledged the offensive nature of his historic tweets and expressed his willingness to engage in discussions to address concerns. "There are also various other tweets which are being shared out of context of the conversation they sit within, and I am willing to commit to any discussions directly with anyone who has any concerns on these, as I have already with a number of colleagues," Ali commented.
Ongoing Efforts for Inclusivity
The situation underscores the ongoing challenges Cricket Scotland faces in its effort to reform and promote inclusivity within the sport. Last year's independent investigation and the subsequent overhaul of the board were significant steps toward addressing institutional racism, but the resurfacing of Ali's tweets indicates there is more work to be done. The organization remains steadfast in its zero-tolerance stance on racism and other forms of unacceptable behaviour.
As the investigation proceeds, the cricketing community will be watching closely to see how Cricket Scotland handles these allegations and what measures will be taken to ensure that the sport remains inclusive and welcoming to all.