Haider Ali Under Criminal Investigation in UK Over Rape Allegation, Provisionally Suspended by PCB: Reports

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Pakistan cricketer Haider Ali has come under serious scrutiny after media reports claimed he is the subject of a criminal investigation by the Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

In the wake of the controversy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provisionally suspended the 24-year-old batter pending the outcome of the investigation.

Incident Occurred During Shaheens' UK Tour

According to Telecom Asia Sport, the Pakistani middle-order batter was arrested by Greater Manchester Police following a serious allegation made by a woman, reportedly involving rape.

However, it is understood that Haider Ali is not in custody in the UK and has been interviewed under caution by GMP. The incident in question reportedly took place during Pakistan Shaheens' recent tour of England, which concluded on Monday (August 4).

In an official statement, the PCB acknowledged the investigation and confirmed that legal assistance is being provided to Haider. “The PCB has been made aware of a criminal investigation currently being conducted by the Greater Manchester Police involving cricketer Haider Ali,” the statement read. “The investigation pertains to an incident that reportedly occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens' recent tour of England.”

PCB Backs Legal Process, Reserves Right to Act

The PCB has emphasised that it respects the legal procedures of the United Kingdom and has taken immediate steps by placing Haider Ali under provisional suspension. “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 statement added.

Reports claimed he was taken into custody on August 3 from the Canterbury ground while participating in a match against MCSAC. Although he was later released on bail, his passport was seized. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) responded swiftly to the development. "According to sources close to the team, the young cricketer was "in tears" after the arrest and maintained his innocence during the interrogatio," claimed Telecom Asia report.

Haider Ali's Career and Role on Tour

Haider Ali, who has played two ODIs and 35 T20Is for Pakistan, was one of the senior players on the Shaheens' UK tour. He featured in all three 50-over matches against a first-class XI and participated in two three-day games as well.

The ongoing investigation casts a shadow over the young batter’s future with the national setup, and the cricketing fraternity now awaits the outcome of the legal proceedings.