Pakistan Cricketer Haider Ali Suspended Amid Criminal Investigation in the UK

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Pakistani international cricketer Haider Ali has been provisionally suspended by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following confirmation that he is under criminal investigation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) in England. The PCB took immediate action after learning of the probe, which relates to an incident allegedly occurring during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of the United Kingdom, which concluded on 5 August 2025.

While authorities have not disclosed the nature of the suspected offence, it has been confirmed that Haider, 24, is not currently in custody. However, he was interviewed under caution by GMP as part of standard police procedure during an active inquiry. The PCB has stated that it is providing legal assistance to ensure the player’s rights are upheld throughout the process.

In an official statement, the PCB said: “The Pakistan Cricket Board has been made aware of a criminal investigation currently being conducted by the Greater Manchester Police involving cricketer Haider Ali. The investigation pertains to an incident that reportedly occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of England.”

The statement continued, “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 further noted that it reserves the right to take disciplinary action in line with its Code of Conduct, depending on the final findings of the investigation.

Haider Ali, who has represented Pakistan in two One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 35 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), was among the more senior members of the Shaheens squad during their tour of England. He featured in all three 50-over matches against a First-Class County XI, as well as two three-day red-ball fixtures.

The Pakistan Shaheens, often viewed as a developmental team for emerging talent and fringe national players, concluded their UK tour earlier this week. The squad’s presence in the country was part of broader efforts to build depth in Pakistan’s national cricketing ranks ahead of upcoming international competitions.

As the investigation unfolds, the PCB’s swift response to suspend Haider provisionally reflects a commitment to transparency and adherence to both international and domestic legal standards. Greater Manchester Police have publicly released no further details at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The case underscores the serious responsibilities borne by athletes representing their countries abroad, with both sporting and legal institutions expected to act decisively when allegations emerge. Haider’s future with the national team may depend on the outcome of the inquiry, which will determine whether any breaches of criminal or sporting codes have occurred.