Cricket Scotland has been thrust under the spotlight once again as it launches a formal investigation following revelations that Khizar Ali, a board member, previously posted tweets containing derogatory language. The tweets, dating back to 2012, include the use of the racially offensive "P" word in reference to Pakistanis, alongside other derogatory remarks targeting Indians.
Ali, who joined Cricket Scotland's board as a regional representative in May 2023, finds himself at the center of a controversy that prompted the anti-racism organization Running out Racism to call for an urgent investigation. This organization, with which Ali has been involved, expressed its concern and disappointment over the tweets.
"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 includes comments regarding various racialised communities. This includes racially offensive terms, such as the P word on numerous occasions," said a spokesperson for Running out Racism. They added, "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."
Institutional Racism in Scottish Cricket
The scandal arrives at a sensitive time for Cricket Scotland, which underwent a significant overhaul last year. An independent investigation highlighted 448 instances of institutional racism within the game's governance, leading to a complete change in the board. This transition was aimed at fostering an inclusive environment and tackling all forms of discrimination.
Reflecting on this, a spokesperson for Cricket Scotland noted, "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."
Khizar Ali's Response
In response to the backlash and the circulating screenshots of his past tweets, Ali issued an apology, acknowledging the hurt caused by his words. "There were recent screenshots shared of historic tweets from 2012 where I used the P word. 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," Ali stated.
He also addressed concerns regarding the context of the tweets. "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."
While Ali's apology and willingness to engage in discussions have been noted, the damage inflicted by his words remains a significant concern. The spokesperson for Running out Racism acknowledged this tension, stating, "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."
A Path Forward
The ongoing investigation by Cricket Scotland will be a crucial step in addressing the issue and rebuilding trust within the cricketing community. The organization's commitment to zero tolerance for racism will be tested as it navigates this latest controversy. Ensuring that the sport remains inclusive and welcoming to all is not merely a goal but an urgent necessity, particularly after the revelations of institutional racism that came to light last year.
As the cricketing world watches closely, Cricket Scotland’s actions in the wake of these revelations will serve as a barometer of its dedication to fostering a genuinely inclusive and respectful environment within the sport. The outcomes of the current investigation will likely shape the future discourse around racism and inclusivity in Scottish cricket for years to come.