Manchester: Pakistani cricketer Haider Ali has been cleared of rape allegations after Manchester Police dismissed the case, citing insufficient evidence.

According to police sources, the case against Haider Ali could not be substantiated, and as a result, his passport will be returned within hours, restoring his freedom to travel in and out of the UK.

The police had taken additional time to thoroughly investigate the complaint but confirmed that no charges could be proven against the 24-year-old batsman.

Haider Ali was arrested two weeks after a woman accused him of sexual assault, allegedly committed on July 23 within Manchester’s jurisdiction. The complaint was formally lodged on August 4, leading to his temporary arrest and subsequent release on bail pending investigation.

This incident occurred during the Pakistan Shaheens’ recent tour of England, adding controversy to the squad’s campaign. Following the allegations, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suspended Haider Ali, stating that the batsman was under investigation in a criminal case by Manchester Police.

With the case now dismissed, Haider Ali is expected to resume his professional cricketing career, though it remains to be seen whether the PCB will immediately reinstate him.