(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Haider Ali Granted Two-Week Bail Extension in UK Rape Investigation
LONDON: Pakistan cricketer Haider Ali has been granted a two-week extension on his bail by Greater Manchester Police in connection with an alleged rape case reported by a British-Pakistani woman at a local hotel.
Ali, 24, was initially scheduled to appear before the police on August 20, 2025, but authorities have postponed the hearing as the investigation continues.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the allegation was reported on August 4, and Ali was arrested immediately. The alleged incident is said to have occurred on July 23, 2025, in Manchester. The police have stated that the victim is receiving support while enquiries continue.
In interviews, Ali has denied the allegation, stating that he knew the woman and that they were friends. He was arrested at the Spitfire County Cricket Ground, Kent, and later taken to Canterbury Police Station.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provisionally suspended Ali for the duration of the investigation. A PCB spokesperson said:
“The PCB fully respects the legal process in the United Kingdom and will allow the investigation to run its course. Haider Ali has been placed under provisional suspension, effective immediately, pending the outcome of the investigation.”
Haider Ali has represented Pakistan in 35 T20 internationals since his debut in 2020, as well as two one-day internationals.
