Pakistan’s Haider Ali suspended amid rape probe in England

Pakistan cricketer Haider Ali has been suspended by the country’s cricket board after being named in a criminal investigation in England concerning an alleged rape incident.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Thursday that the 24-year-old batsman is under investigation over an incident that reportedly occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of England. The board did not elaborate on the nature of the allegations.

Greater Manchester Police, in a statement to the Associated Press, said they received a rape complaint on Monday and have arrested a 24-year-old man.

“The incident is alleged to have taken place on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at a premises in Manchester,” the police said. “The man has since been bailed pending further inquiries.”

In accordance with UK law, the police did not release the suspect’s name.

The PCB said Haider Ali has been suspended with immediate effect while the investigation is underway. He has also been given legal support.

“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 board said in a statement.

The Pakistan Shaheens, a second-tier national team, were on a 15-day tour in England that began on July 22.

Haider Ali, who made his international debut in 2020, has played two ODIs and 35 T20 internationals for Pakistan.

The PCB added that it would wait for the legal process to conclude before determining any further action under its Code of Conduct.

Source: Agency