Cricket Scotland has been plunged into controversy following the emergence of offensive tweets by board member Khizar Ali, dating back to 2012. The tweets, which included derogatory terms such as the "P" word used to refer to Pakistanis and other inflammatory remarks aimed at Indians, have prompted a formal investigation.
Ali, who became a regional representative on the board in May 2023, has publicly apologized for his past comments. "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," he stated.
Running out Racism, an advocacy group with whom Ali has been involved, has called for an urgent investigation. A spokesperson for the organization expressed mixed feelings about the situation: "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."
Historical Context of Racism
This incident comes at a time when Cricket Scotland is particularly sensitive to issues of racism, having undergone significant organizational changes last year. An independent investigation in 2022 revealed systemic racism within the governance of the game. The investigation uncovered 448 instances of institutional racism, resulting in an overhaul of the Cricket Scotland board.
The organization has since been vocal about its commitment to creating an inclusive environment. "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," a spokesperson for Cricket Scotland reiterated.
Calls for Accountability
In light of the situation, Running out Racism expressed their disappointment but acknowledged Ali's willingness to address the issue. "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," remarked a spokesperson for the group.
Future Implications
Ali, for his part, has shown openness to dialogue and resolution. "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 stated. This gesture indicates his recognition of the gravity of the situation and an earnest attempt to make amends.
As Cricket Scotland navigates this controversy, the organization’s response and the outcome of the investigation will undoubtedly be watched closely by the sporting community and advocacy groups alike. The repercussions of this controversy are yet to unfold, but the incident underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and commitment to eradicating discriminatory practices within sports.