The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provisionally suspended batsman Haider Ali, who is facing a criminal investigation in England in connection with charges of rape.

The PCB said the Greater Manchester Police had confirmed an arrest in the case, but it did not divulge any details. The board said an investigation “involving cricketer Haider Ali” stemmed from “an incident that reportedly occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of England”. The PCB did not specify the nature of the investigation against 24-year-old Ali.

The Greater Manchester Police said that on Monday, they received a report of a rape. “We have arrested a 24-year-old man. It’s alleged that the incident occurred on Wednesday July 23, 2025 at a premises in Manchester. The man has since been bailed pending further enquiries,” the police statement said. The police in Britain typically do not name suspects at this stage of investigations.

The Shaheens team represents Pakistan in second-tier international cricket. Their 15-day tour started on July 22. The PCB suspended Ali “effective immediately, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation”. “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,” said the PCB.

Ali has played two one-day internationals and 35 T20s for Pakistan since making his international debut in 2020.

The PCB said Ali was provided appropriate legal support. “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,” it added.