Cricket Scotland has launched a formal investigation after it emerged that Khizar Ali, a member of its board, had previously posted derogatory tweets. These tweets, which date back to 2012, contained offensive language, including the use of the "P" word in reference to Pakistanis and other derogatory remarks about Indians.
Ali, who joined Cricket Scotland's board as a regional representative in May 2023, has come under scrutiny following the circulation of these historical posts. Running out Racism, an organization dedicated to eliminating racism in cricket, has urgently called for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Apology from Khizar Ali
Addressing the controversy, Khizar Ali expressed his remorse over the insensitive language used in his old tweets. Ali said, "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 further explained that some of the tweets are being shared out of context but showed his willingness to engage in discussions with those concerned. "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," Ali added.
Response from Running out Racism
Running out Racism, which has previously worked with Ali, expressed disappointment at his actions. A spokesperson from the organization said, "We've 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 added, "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."
Commitment to Inclusivity
Cricket Scotland has been undergoing significant restructuring efforts aimed at addressing issues of institutional racism within its governance. Last year, an independent investigation unearthed 448 examples of institutional racism, prompting a complete overhaul of the board. The organization emphasized its commitment to fostering an inclusive and discrimination-free environment in the sport.
A spokesperson for Cricket Scotland commented on the organization’s stance on inclusivity and the ongoing investigation. "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 initiation of this formal investigation into Khizar Ali’s historical tweets is another step in Cricket Scotland’s broader efforts to address and eliminate racism in the sport. The organization’s swift action underscores its resolve to create a professional sporting environment that upholds the values of respect and equality.