Pakistan batter Haider Ali has been placed under provisional suspension by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after he was reportedly arrested in England in connection with an alleged case of sexual molestation. The player was later released on bail.
According to reports, the 24-year-old cricketer—who has played two ODIs and 35 T20Is for Pakistan—was arrested by the Greater Manchester Police on August 3 while representing Pakistan Shaheens during a one-day match at Beckenheim.
The PCB has confirmed it was informed about a criminal investigation currently being conducted by authorities in the UK.
“The investigation pertains to an incident that reportedly occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of England,” the PCB said in a statement.
“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 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.”
The PCB has refrained from making further comments, citing respect for the legal proceedings currently underway. The outcome of the investigation will determine Haider Ali’s future involvement in cricket, both domestically and internationally.
