London (TNS) Haider Ali granted bail after arrest over rape allegation in Manchester

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London, August 8, 2025 (TNS): Pakistan cricketer Haider Ali has been granted bail after his arrest in Manchester over an alleged rape, British media reported Friday.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that the 24-year-old batter was arrested following a complaint lodged by a British Pakistani woman, who alleged the incident took place at a local hotel on July 23. Police said they received the report on August 4 and took Ali into custody the same day.

“It’s alleged that the incident occurred on Wednesday, 23 July, 2025, at a premises in Manchester. The man has since been bailed pending further enquiries. The victim is being supported by officers,” GMP said in a statement.

Sources said that Ali denied the allegation during his police interview, claiming he knew the woman and that they were friends. Family members said the meeting had been consensual.

Ali was arrested at the Spitfire County Cricket Ground in Kent, taken from the players’ canteen office by Kent Police officers, and moved to Canterbury Police Station. Sources noted he was not handcuffed.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed it had placed Ali under provisional suspension for the duration of the investigation. “The PCB fully respects the legal procedures of the United Kingdom and acknowledges the importance of allowing the investigation to run its due course,” the board said, adding it would consider further action once legal proceedings conclude.