Pakistan Cricketer Haider Ali Under Criminal Investigation in England Over Rape Allegation.
Manchester:
Pakistan batsman Haider Ali is under criminal investigation in England in connection with a rape allegation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed in an official statement. The Greater Manchester Police have also announced that a 24-year-old man was arrested in relation to the incident and has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.
The police said they received a report on Monday, August 4, alleging that a rape had taken place in Manchester on Wednesday, July 23. While the suspect has not been named by British authorities—standard procedure at this stage of a criminal investigation—the PCB acknowledged that the case involves Haider Ali and that the matter is being taken seriously.
“This matter involves cricketer Haider Ali and stems from an incident that reportedly occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of England,” the PCB said in a press release issued on Thursday.
The Shaheens, a second-tier international team representing Pakistan, began their 15-day tour of England on July 22. The incident in question allegedly took place just a day after the team arrived in Manchester.
As the investigation unfolds, the PCB has moved swiftly to suspend Ali from all cricketing activities, stating:
“Haider Ali is suspended effective immediately, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.”
The board emphasized its commitment to respecting legal processes and affirmed that Ali has been provided with legal assistance in the United Kingdom.
“The PCB fully respects the legal procedures and processes of the United Kingdom and acknowledges the importance of allowing the investigation to run its due course,” the statement read.
Haider Ali, 24, made his international debut for Pakistan in 2020 and has since appeared in two One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 35 T20 Internationals. He was once seen as one of the rising stars of Pakistan cricket, known for his aggressive batting style and flair at the crease.
The PCB stated that it would await the outcome of the legal proceedings before deciding on any further disciplinary measures.
“Once the legal proceedings are concluded and all facts have been duly established, the PCB reserves the right to take appropriate action under its Code of Conduct, if necessary,” the board added.
As of now, Greater Manchester Police continue to investigate the allegation, and no formal charges have been filed. Ali remains on police bail, with conditions yet to be made public.
The developments mark a troubling episode for Pakistan cricket, with fans and officials alike now awaiting the legal outcome and any further statements from UK authorities or the PCB.
