Cricket Scotland has launched a formal investigation into Khizar Ali, a board member, following revelations of derogatory tweets he posted in 2012. These tweets include the use of the "P" word to refer to Pakistanis and offensive remarks aimed at Indians. The controversy has brought renewed attention to Cricket Scotland's ongoing struggle with racism.
Ali, who joined the board as a regional representative in May 2023, has a background of involvement with Running out Racism, an organization that has also called for an urgent investigation into the matter. This situation has cast a shadow on Cricket Scotland's attempts to rectify past issues of racism within its ranks.
Historic Tweets Under Scrutiny
The tweets in question date back to 2012, but their resurfacing has caused significant upset within the South Asian and cricketing communities. Ali issued a public apology, stating, "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."
Running out Racism, an organization with which Ali has been associated, expressed their disappointment and surprise. A spokesperson commented, "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 History of Institutional Racism
This incident comes on the heels of significant changes within Cricket Scotland. Last year, an independent investigation unearthed 448 examples of institutional racism within the governance of the sport. The findings led to a complete overhaul of Cricket Scotland's board. The organization has since committed to creating an inclusive environment and tackling all forms of discrimination.
A Cricket Scotland spokesperson reiterated this commitment amidst the current investigation into Ali's tweets. "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 behavior."
Ali’s Response and Calls for Discussion
Khizar Ali addressed the context of some of his tweets, acknowledging that some might be taken out of context. "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 said.
Running out Racism, while dismayed, acknowledged Ali's openness to dialogue. "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.
The Path Forward for Cricket Scotland
As Cricket Scotland navigates this latest controversy, the organization's commitment to fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment will be tested. The ongoing investigation into Ali's tweets and the broader issues of racism within Scottish cricket reflect a critical moment for the sport. The organization’s actions in the coming weeks will be closely watched as they strive to uphold and enforce their zero-tolerance policy against discrimination.
Cricket Scotland's promise to ensure a safe and welcoming environment in the sport is not just a statement but a necessity to shift cultural norms and eradicate previous institutional failures. The involvement and reaction of groups like Running out Racism underscore the importance of accountability and active engagement in resolving such deeply rooted issues.
This investigation into Khizar Ali serves as a reminder that past behaviors and expressions hold lasting impacts, particularly in a sport striving to eliminate racism from its core. Cricket Scotland's continued dedication to reform will be crucial in shaping an inclusive future for cricket in the country.