Cricket Scotland has launched a formal investigation following revelations that Khizar Ali, a recent addition to its board, had previously posted tweets containing derogatory language. The tweets, which date back to 2012, included the use of a racial slur directed at Pakistanis as well as offensive remarks aimed at Indians.
Ali, who joined Cricket Scotland's board as a regional representative in May 2023, expressed regret over his actions. "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 said.
History of Racism Issues
This incident comes at a time when Cricket Scotland is still grappling with the aftermath of an independent investigation last year that uncovered institutional racism within its governance. The investigation identified a staggering 448 examples of such behavior, prompting a complete overhaul of the board in a bid to foster an inclusive environment.
A spokesperson for Cricket Scotland reaffirmed the organization's commitment to inclusivity. "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."
Calls for Urgent Investigation
Running out Racism, an advocacy group, has called for an urgent investigation into Ali's past remarks. The group expressed disappointment and surprise over the incident. "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," a spokesperson from the group stated. "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."
An Opportunity for Dialogue
Ali has also shown a willingness to engage in dialogue. "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, indicating his readiness to address concerns openly.
Cricket Scotland and affiliated organizations like Running out Racism have clearly been making efforts to address and rectify deep-seated issues related to race and discrimination within the sport. This latest incident will undoubtedly test the commitment of both the board and advocacy groups to fostering a truly inclusive environment.
The unfolding investigation into Khizar Ali's past remarks will be a pivotal moment for Cricket Scotland. It is an opportunity to demonstrate the organization's zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behavior and to reaffirm its dedication to an inclusive and welcoming sporting community.