Cricket Scotland has launched a formal investigation following the emergence of historical tweets from Khizar Ali, a current board member, containing racially derogatory language. These tweets, which date back to 2012, exhibit the use of the "P" word in reference to Pakistanis, along with other offensive comments aimed at Indians.
Khizar Ali, who joined Cricket Scotland's board as a regional representative in May 2023, has found himself at the center of growing scrutiny. The tweets have prompted significant concern within the cricketing community, leading to urgent calls for action. Running out Racism, an organization Ali himself has been involved with, has been vocal in demanding an immediate investigation into the matter.
Cricket Scotland's Commitment to Inclusivity
Cricket Scotland underwent substantial changes last year following an independent investigation that uncovered 448 examples of institutional racism within the sport's governance in Scotland. In response, the entire board was overhauled in an effort to foster an environment that is inclusive, safe, and free from discrimination.
A spokesperson for Cricket Scotland reiterated this commitment: "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."
Acknowledgment and Apologies
Khizar Ali has stepped forward to address the backlash, offering a public apology for his past remarks. "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 expressed.
He also emphasized that certain tweets are being disseminated without proper context, and he is open to engaging in discussions with anyone concerned. "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 added.
Community Reaction
The response from Running out Racism has been one of surprise and dismay. The organization, which has previously worked with Ali, expressed its disappointment in no uncertain terms. "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," a spokesperson from the organization noted.
Despite the disappointment, Running out Racism acknowledged Ali's willingness to own his past actions and engage in meaningful conversations. "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 spokesperson added.
Path Forward
As the investigation by Cricket Scotland proceeds, the organization remains steadfast in its objective to uphold the principles of inclusivity and non-discrimination within the sport. The swift actions taken by Cricket Scotland and the transparent acknowledgment from Khizar Ali underline a shared commitment to addressing and rectifying historical wrongs.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of words and the essential responsibility that comes with leadership positions in shaping a culture of respect and inclusion. The cricketing community, while processing the immediate shock and dismay, looks to build a stronger, more unified future free from the shadows of past wrongdoings.