The Pakistan Cricket Board has finally removed the provisional suspension imposed on batter Haider Ali and cleared him to resume competitive cricket. The decision comes after Haider was cleared of rape allegations by Manchester Police in September 2023.
This also means that as part of his return to action, Haider Ali has been granted a No Objection Certificate to participate in the Bangladesh Premier League 2023-24.
Background: Suspension and Legal Battles of Haider Ali
Haider Ali was, in August 2023, suspended by the PCB, pending an investigation into rape allegations filed by a UK-born Pakistani woman. The incident happened during the tour of England by the Pakistan Shaheens squad, which included Haider. This had been a deliberate move by the PCB to avoid any undue influence on the investigation and to keep fairness in the public domain.
However, after an investigation, Manchester Police exonerated all charges against Haider Ali on 25 September 2023 due to a lack of credible evidence. This meant Haider was free from fault, and therefore the PCB lifted the suspension imposed on him.
PCB’s Decision: Haider Ali is granted NOC
The PCB has wasted no time in paving the way for Haider Ali to get back into the professional cricket circuit once the legal issue is over. In a release on Wednesday, it was learned that Haider Ali, among many other cricketers, was granted an NOC to play in the BPL.
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Other names forming part of the PCB’s decision include Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Sahibzada Farhan, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Khawaja Nafay, and Ehsanullah, who have received approval for participation in the coming season of BPL.
Career and Impact of Haider Ali on Pakistani Cricket
Haider, who has so far represented Pakistan in 35 T20Is and 2 ODIs, is rated among the most promising young talents in the country’s cricketing horizon. His comeback to competitive cricket in the BPL will infuse much-needed momentum not only into his career but also into the Pakistan cricket team.
Having made his international debut in 2020, Haider Ali is known for his aggressive batting style and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. The PCB’s decision now to revoke his suspension indicates the way to get him back into groove after many months of not being in action.
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Return of Haider Ali to the Field The withdrawal of the suspension against Haider Ali is a pivotal juncture in the career of this cricketer. Now that the legal issue is no longer an obstacle, Haider can devote himself to his game with a bright future ahead for him in the Bangladesh Premier League.
This is welcome news not only for Haider Ali personally but also a positive indicator for Pakistan cricket at large, as it leads to inferences that the board will stand by their players provided they are able to meet the minimum ethical and legal requirements.
The return of Haider to cricket will no doubt be followed closely by fans and pundits alike as he looks to make a strong comeback and prove his worth on the international stage.
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