Pakistani cricketer accused of rape arrested in UK: PCB issues provisional suspension
The England tour of the Pakistan Shaheens has been marred by a disturbing incident. Pakistani batter Haider Ali, one of the senior players in the Shaheens' squad on the tour, has been named in rape allegations. The 24-year old is facing a criminal investigation in the United Kingdom after being arrested by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) on August 4, 2025. The accusations against Ali allege rape that is said to have occurred in Manchester on July 23. The GMP authority confirmed that the Pakistani player was taken into custody and later released on bail while inquiries continue.
Haider Ali arrested in the UK over rape allegations
While the specifics of the allegation have not been publicly revealed, a recent reports has informed that GMP interviewed Haider Ali under caution. He is no longer in custody but remains part of the ongoing case. The alleged incident reportedly took place during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of England, which wrapped up earlier this week. Haider, one of the senior members of the squad, played in all three 50-over matches against a first-class XI as well as both three-day games.
“A report of a rape was made to police on Monday, 4 August 2025. It’s alleged that the incident occurred on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, at a premises in Manchester. We have arrested a 24-year-old man. He has since been bailed pending further enquiries,” the police said in a statement.
Following news of the investigation, the Pakistan Cricket Board has placed Haider under provisional suspension. The board, in an official statement, said the suspension will remain in force until the inquiry concludes. In its statement, the PCB acknowledged it had been informed of the matter and stressed the importance of following legal procedures in the UK.
“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. Accordingly, the PCB has decided to place Haider Ali under provisional suspension, effective immediately, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation," PCB confirmed.
The board added that Haider is receiving legal representation “to protect his rights throughout this process” and noted that it reserves the right to take additional disciplinary measures under its Code of Conduct once proceedings are complete and the facts established. Reiterating its position, the PCB said it would allow due process to run its course and will refrain from further comment until the investigation is resolved.
“In line with its duty of care and responsibility to ensure the welfare and legal rights of all its players, the PCB has ensured that Haider Ali has received appropriate legal support to protect his rights throughout this process,” the PCB said.
Haider Ali made his Pakistan T20I debut in September 2020 against England and entered the ODI squad just two months later for a series against Zimbabwe. In T20Is, he has featured in 35 games, scoring over 500 runs, including three half-centuries and a personal best of 68. However, the right-hander has been absent from Pakistan’s senior side for nearly two years, last appearing during the 2023 Asian Games.
