Cricket Scotland is once again facing scrutiny as it initiates a formal investigation into board member Khizar Ali. The decision follows revelations that Ali had posted derogatory language in tweets dating back to 2012, including the use of the "P" word in reference to Pakistanis and other offensive remarks directed at Indians.
Ali, who joined Cricket Scotland's board as a regional representative in May 2023, issued an apology regarding the resurfaced 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," said Ali.
The organization Running out Racism, which has previously worked closely with Ali, has called for an immediate investigation. A spokesperson from the group commented, “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." The spokesperson continued, "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. 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."
Ali addressed the context of his tweets, suggesting that some were being shared 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," he explained.
A Historical Context of Institutional Racism
This investigation comes in the wake of significant structural changes at Cricket Scotland last year. An independent investigation had unveiled 448 instances of institutional racism, leading to the complete overhaul of the organization's board. The findings catalyzed Cricket Scotland’s commitment to tackling all forms of discrimination and creating an inclusive environment. A spokesperson for Cricket Scotland reiterated this stance, stating, "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."
The ongoing situation presents a complex scenario for Cricket Scotland, an organization that has been attempting to rebuild its credibility and foster an inclusive culture following last year's findings. The calls for thorough scrutiny and the formal investigation into Ali's past comments reflect the organization's ongoing efforts to address and rectify issues of racism and discrimination within the sport's governance.
Amid these developments, Cricket Scotland’s determination to maintain integrity and trust in its sport remains clear. Through this investigation, it hopes to demonstrate its zero-tolerance policy towards any form of discriminatory behavior, reinforcing its mission to create a safe and inclusive environment for all.