Cricket Scotland is currently grappling with a significant controversy following the revelation that board member Khizar Ali previously posted derogatory tweets. The tweets, which date back to 2012, contain offensive language directed at Pakistanis and Indians.
A Call for Investigation
This development has prompted Cricket Scotland to launch a formal investigation. Ali, who joined the board as a regional representative in May 2023, used the "P" word in reference to Pakistanis and made other offensive remarks within those tweets. The organization's swift action reflects its commitment to addressing discrimination and fostering an inclusive environment.
Running out Racism, an advocacy group dedicated to eliminating racism from the sport, has also called for an urgent investigation. The group expressed its dismay over the language used by Ali. A spokesperson from Running out Racism said, "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."
An Apology from Khizar Ali
Ali has publicly apologized for the tweets. "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," he stated.
He added that certain tweets are being taken out of context but expressed his willingness to discuss concerns directly with anyone affected. "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 remarked.
Cricket Scotland's Commitment to Change
This controversy follows a period of significant change for Cricket Scotland, which underwent a major overhaul last year. An independent investigation in 2022 revealed 448 examples of institutional racism within the governance of the game, leading to a complete change in the organization's board.
A spokesperson for Cricket Scotland reaffirmed the organization's commitment to inclusivity and battling discrimination. "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."
Reactions within the Community
The reactions within the cricket community have been strong. Running out Racism members expressed their deep disappointment. "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," said a spokesperson from the group.
However, the group also acknowledged Ali's proactive stance in addressing the issue. "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 spokesperson added.
This situation underscores the complexities and challenges that sports organizations face as they strive to create more inclusive environments. How Cricket Scotland navigates this controversy will likely be scrutinized closely, as the organization aims to uphold its commitment to zero tolerance for racism and other forms of discrimination.