Cricket Scotland has found itself at the center of a new controversy following the emergence of historic tweets from one of its board members, Khizar Ali. Ali, who joined the board as a regional representative in May 2023, is now under investigation for tweets made in 2012 that include derogatory language aimed at Pakistanis and Indians.
Running out Racism, an advocacy group committed to eliminating racism within cricket, has called for an urgent examination of the matter. Ali has been closely associated with this group, adding an additional layer of complexity to the unfolding situation. The group issued a statement expressing its shock and disappointment upon discovering Ali's use of offensive terms.
"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," a Running out Racism spokesperson stated.
Khizar Ali Apologizes
Ali has offered a public apology for his past 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.
He acknowledged that some tweets are being shared out of context and expressed his willingness to engage in discussions with anyone who has concerns. "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 noted.
Institutional Racism in Cricket Scotland
This incident comes on the heels of significant turmoil within Cricket Scotland. Last year, an independent investigation into the governance of cricket in Scotland revealed 448 instances of institutional racism, leading to a complete overhaul of Cricket Scotland's board. The organization has since committed to creating an inclusive environment and addressing all forms of discrimination.
A spokesperson for Cricket Scotland reiterated their commitment to combating racism and other unacceptable behaviors within the sport. "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."
Community Reactions
Responses to the revelation have been mixed, with many within the cricketing community expressing their dismay and disappointment. Running out Racism members, in particular, feel deeply let down. "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 for the group.
Despite the distress caused, the group acknowledges Ali's efforts to address the situation. "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.
As Cricket Scotland moves forward with its investigation, the organization's commitment to inclusivity and zero tolerance towards racism will be closely scrutinized. The outcome of this investigation may well serve as a litmus test for the integrity and progress of Cricket Scotland's recent reforms.