Cricket Scotland Launches Investigation into Racially Offensive Historical Tweets by Board Member
Cricket Scotland has initiated a formal investigation following the revelation that Khizar Ali, a member of its board, had previously posted tweets containing derogatory language. The tweets, dating back to 2012, include the use of the "P" word in reference to Pakistanis and other offensive remarks aimed at Indians.
Ali, who joined Cricket Scotland's board as a regional representative in May 2023, expressed his remorse for the historical 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," Ali stated.
Historical Tweets Under Scrutiny
The content of the tweets has prompted concern and backlash from various quarters, including the campaign group Running out Racism, which has called for an urgent investigation. A spokesperson for the group said, "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."
Ali, who has been involved with Running out Racism, acknowledged the hurt caused by his past actions. "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 added.
Commitment to Tackling Discrimination
Cricket Scotland has reiterated its commitment to creating an inclusive environment and tackling all forms of discrimination. The organisation underwent significant changes last year when an independent investigation revealed institutional racism within the governance of the game in Scotland. This review identified 448 examples of institutional racism.
"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," a Cricket Scotland spokesperson noted. "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."
Reactions from Running out Racism
Members of Running out Racism have expressed their disappointment in Ali’s past conduct. "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 for the campaign group said. "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."
As Cricket Scotland proceeds with its investigation, the organisation’s efforts to foster a more inclusive atmosphere in the sport remain in focus. The steps taken now will be pivotal in ensuring that the governing body lives up to its commitments and cultivates a safe and welcoming environment for all participants and supporters.