With a three-match ODI series set to begin for Pakistan against the West Indies from Friday, August 8, ideally, off-field news is what fans would be waiting for. However, Pakistan Cricket is making noise off the field with batter Haider Ali embroiled in a criminal investigation in England. News has emerged that the cricketer has been arrested on an accusation of sexual molestation.
Following the latest controversy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended the player immediately. However, it has emerged that he was later released on bail. For the unversed, three days ago, on August 3, Haider was arrested by the Greater Manchester Police at Hove. During the time of arrest, the 24-year-old was playing a match for Pakistan Shaheens in a one-day game at Beckenheim.
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The PCB stated it was aware of the youngster's arrest, which is currently being carried out by Manchester Police.
"The investigation pertains to an incident that reportedly occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens' recent tour of England," the PCB said in a statement.
Pakistan Cricket Board fully cooperative with the Manchester Police in Haider Ali case
"In line with its duty of care and responsibility to ensure the welfare and legal rights of all its players, the PCB has ensured that Haider Ali has received appropriate legal support to protect his rights throughout this process.
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"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 said.
Haider has represented Pakistan in two ODIs and 35 T20Is. The 24-year-old last featured in an international match against Afghanistan in 2023. It remains to be seen if proven guilty in the criminal case, what action PCB will take. Currently, Haider is not centrally contracted player with the board as he is out of scheme in both white-ball formats.
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