Pakistan cricketer arrested in England over rape allegation; released on bail; suspended by PCB

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Thursday confirmed that batter Haider Ali is facing a criminal investigation in England.

Greater Manchester Police announced that the 24-year-old was formally arrested following a rape allegation. He was later released on bail.

The PCB did not disclose details of the arrest but announced Ali’s provisional suspension for the duration of the inquiry, which relates to an incident allegedly taking place during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of England.

“The PCB respects the legal procedures of the United Kingdom and will allow the investigation to take its due course,” the board said in a statement, adding that further action may be taken under its Code of Conduct once the case concludes.

According to police, a report of rape was received on Monday, with the alleged incident occurring on July 23, 2025, at a location in Manchester. Ali has been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Ali played six matches between July 22 and August 3, scoring 159 runs. Since his 2020 debut, he has represented Pakistan in 35 T20Is and two ODIs, and was regarded as one of the country’s top batting prospects. He also featured in the 2020 Under-19 World Cup and was previously suspended in 2021 for breaching COVID-19 protocols during the Pakistan Super League.