Cricket Scotland is once again in the spotlight as the organization has launched a formal investigation into historic tweets by Khizar Ali, a current member of its board. The tweets, dated from 2012, contain derogatory language, including repeated use of the "P" word directed at Pakistanis and other offensive terms aimed at Indians. Ali, who joined the board in May 2023 as a regional representative, now faces scrutiny for his past actions on social media.
Ali's appointment was seen as part of Cricket Scotland’s ongoing efforts to reform and foster an inclusive environment within the sport. This latest controversy, however, threatens to overshadow those efforts. Running out Racism, an organization dedicated to combating racial discrimination in cricket, has called for an urgent investigation into the matter, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Past Transgressions Surface
"There were recent screenshots shared of historic tweets from 2012 where I used the P word," Ali acknowledged. "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 tweets have prompted widespread disappointment and anger within the cricketing community. A spokesperson for Running out Racism expressed the organization's stance: "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."
While some of the tweets are being shared out of context, Ali has shown a willingness to address concerns head-on. "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," he said.
Ongoing Commitment to Inclusivity
Cricket Scotland underwent substantial changes last year following an independent investigation that revealed institutional racism within the organization's governance. The investigation uncovered 448 examples of institutional racism, leading to a complete overhaul of the board.
A spokesperson for Cricket Scotland underscored the organization's renewed focus on creating a safe and inclusive environment for all: "The board of Cricket Scotland was completely changed last year after an independent investigation found the governance of the game in Scotland to be institutionally racist. 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."
Running out Racism, which has also collaborated with Ali, expressed both disappointment and a degree of understanding regarding his current predicament. "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."
The situation is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in eradicating discrimination within sports, even as organizations strive to rebuild trust and foster inclusivity. As Cricket Scotland's investigation proceeds, the cricketing community will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that aligns with the values of respect and equality that the sport aspires to uphold.