Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) High-Performance Director and selection committee member Aaqib Javed has expressed serious concerns regarding opener Imam-ul-Haq’s absence from batting in both innings of the Lord’s Test due to injury. Javed announced that Imam will face an official inquiry to clarify the circumstances surrounding his fitness.
Imam-ul-Haq reportedly suffered a minor strain to his left calf during the match, but his decision not to bat in either innings has raised doubts. Javed emphasized that while he is not accusing Imam of feigning injury, a muscle strain typically would not prevent a player from attempting to bat. He stressed that players are expected to make an effort to participate despite minor injuries, and Imam should have tried to compete.
Imam’s fitness came under scrutiny after he was seen warming up with teammates on the fourth morning, despite not batting on the previous days. The situation also attracted criticism from former England fast bowler Stuart Broad and Australian cricketer David Warner, who questioned the legitimacy of Imam’s injury on social media.
Meanwhile, following Pakistan’s defeat at Lord’s, the PCB implemented sweeping changes by sending seven players, including Imam, back home. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were relieved of their duties, and former captain Misbah-ul-Haq resigned from the selection panel. Javed defended these decisions, stating that Pakistan’s lack of competitiveness in the two Tests necessitated action.
He noted that Pakistan had alternative options, such as all-rounders and fast bowler Ubaid Shah, who bowls at approximately 140 km/h, but these were not utilized. Javed revealed he had recommended Ubaid’s inclusion to captain Babar Azam and the coaching staff. He also questioned the choice of Mohammad Rizwan as wicketkeeper over Ghazi Ghori and justified Salman Ali Agha’s exclusion due to poor form.
In a significant development, Javed ruled out resigning from his position, unlike Misbah-ul-Haq, and reiterated that team selection and management responsibilities are shared between the captain and coaches. He highlighted the expectation that players selected for crucial tours must demonstrate strong commitment and performance, especially under pressure.
Javed also pledged full support for the newly appointed head coach Mike Hesson, emphasizing that the team is led jointly by the coach and captain. He acknowledged the challenge of reversing Pakistan’s fortunes quickly but expressed confidence in the team’s talent.
Pakistan is scheduled to play the third Test against England at Edgbaston starting September 9.
