
Pakistan cricketer Haider Ali has been provisionally suspended by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after he became the subject of a criminal investigation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) in the United Kingdom. The investigation relates to an incident that reportedly took place during the Pakistan Shaheens' recent tour of England.
Although full details of the incident have not been shared publicly, sources say that Haider Ali was interviewed by UK police under caution. However, it is important to note that he is not currently in custody.
The 24-year-old batter, who has represented Pakistan in two One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 35 T20 Internationals, was an important part of the Pakistan Shaheens squad. During the tour of England, he played in three 50-over matches and two three-day games. He was among the more senior players in the team and played in every match during the tour.
In an official statement released on August 7, 2025, the PCB confirmed that they are aware of the police investigation and that Haider Ali has been suspended from all cricket activities while the matter is being looked into.
The PCB, in its statement, emphasised that they are giving full respect to the legal system in the UK. They said they are not interfering in the process and are waiting for the investigation to be completed before taking any further action.
“The PCB has been made aware of a criminal investigation currently being conducted by the Greater Manchester Police involving cricketer Haider Ali,” the statement said.
“The investigation pertains to an incident that reportedly occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens' recent tour of England.”
The board clarified that the suspension is temporary and meant to allow the legal process to move ahead without any external influence. They also said that once the full facts are clear, they will consider taking further action if needed, as per their Code of Conduct.
“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 statement continued.
“Accordingly, the PCB has decided to place Haider Ali under provisional suspension, effective immediately, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation. 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.”
In addition to announcing his suspension, the PCB also said they would support Haider Ali legally during this difficult time. The board has not provided any more details about the nature of the incident, likely because the investigation is still in progress.
Haider Ali is considered a young and promising cricketer. He made headlines early in his career for his explosive batting style. Although his place in the national team has not always been consistent, he has remained active in Pakistan's domestic and ‘A’ team circuits, including tours like the recent one to England with the Shaheens.
This situation is a serious blow to both the player and the team. The PCB is known for taking disciplinary matters seriously, especially when legal issues are involved. While they are offering him legal help, the board also made it clear that it won’t compromise on discipline and fair process.
The Greater Manchester Police, on their part, have not yet released an official statement or report with further details. Since the case is still in the early stages, more information may come out in the coming weeks.
For now, Haider Ali will remain suspended from playing or participating in any PCB-related cricket events until the investigation is complete. This means he will miss domestic tournaments and potential international call-ups.
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The situation involving Haider Ali is a serious matter for both the cricketer and the Pakistan Cricket Board. While the exact nature of the allegations remains unclear, the fact that he is under police investigation in a foreign country has led the PCB to act swiftly by suspending him temporarily.
By respecting the UK’s legal process and offering Haider legal support, the PCB is trying to handle the case professionally and fairly. However, what happens next will depend entirely on the outcome of the investigation.
Cricket fans and officials will now be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what the final result of the police inquiry will be.