LONDON — Pakistani cricketer Haider Ali is facing a rape allegation in the United Kingdom, but inconsistencies in the reported timeline and new witness accounts are prompting questions about the case’s credibility.
The complainant, a British Pakistani woman in her early 20s whose identity is protected by law, first connected with Ali on social media last year. Their initial meeting took place on July 23 at a Manchester hotel, followed by lunch. Witnesses say the encounter appeared friendly, with both smiling and engaged in conversation.
On Aug. 1, the woman reportedly traveled nearly four hours to Ashford, Kent, to meet Ali again. They had lunch and went for a walk. According to sources close to the cricketer, she showed no signs of distress during or after either meeting. Phone records also suggest communication between the two remained normal.
The allegation was lodged on Aug. 4 — nearly two weeks after their first meeting and three days after the second. Police arrested Ali the next day but released him on bail 48 hours later. His phone was returned — an unusual step, legal observers note, unless evidence is limited.
Ali has categorically denied the accusation, calling it “baseless” and insisting the interactions were consensual. Greater Manchester Police confirmed the investigation is ongoing and said they are providing support to the alleged victim.
The Pakistan Cricket Board says it is “monitoring the situation” and will decide on further action once the legal process is complete.
