Pakistan batter Haider Ali is no longer under investigation in the United Kingdom after Greater Manchester Police (GMP) closed a month-long rape inquiry and confirmed that “all charges against the player” have been dropped. The 24-year-old, who was on tour with the Pakistan Shaheens, had been arrested in Beckenham on 3 August during a 50-over fixture. He had since been on police bail but is now clear to return home.
GMP, in a brief written statement, said: “We always take allegations of this nature very seriously and will assess each incident thoroughly. Following a comprehensive review of all available evidence, the investigation has been closed at this time. Should any further information come to light, we would review the material and case again appropriately.”
Key timeline
• 23 July – Alleged incident in Manchester, a day after the Shaheens’ opening tour match
• 3 August – Officers attend Beckenham; Haider arrested mid-game
• 4 August – Player released on bail pending further enquiries
• 4 September – Case dropped; no further action
The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed the police decision on Thursday. Officials have not yet ruled on disciplinary proceedings, noting they will “speak to the player face-to-face before deciding on any next steps”. Under the board’s code of conduct, players can face internal reviews even when legal action ends.
Career to date
Haider shot to prominence in the 2020 Pakistan Super League, hammering 239 runs at a strike rate north of 150 for Peshawar Zalmi. A maiden international call-up followed swiftly; his debut T20I in Manchester produced a lively 54 from 33 balls and a five-run win. Yet consistency has proved elusive: two one-day internationals and 35 T20Is over five years, with intermittent spells outside the squad.
The current Shaheens tour – essentially a Pakistan A assignment – was seen as a chance to re-establish himself in the national set-up. Selectors have made no secret of their desire for a more aggressive top order, and Haider’s naturally rapid scoring suits that brief.
Impact and next steps
For now, the immediate concern is travel arrangements. Team officials expect Haider to fly out within days once paperwork is finalised. As one senior coach remarked privately, “The lad needs a clear head and some cricket.” How quickly he finds a domestic or international slot will depend on both fitness and form; Pakistan’s T20 calendar is packed from October onwards.
Legal experts caution that closed cases can be reopened, though such moves are rare without fresh evidence. A players’ union representative, speaking on background, urged supporters to “give everyone involved the space to move forward”.
In short, Haider Ali leaves England with his legal slate wiped clean but plenty still to prove with bat in hand.
