Imam-ul-Haq may face 2-year ban over injury controversy at Lord's

Imam-ul-Haq could face a possible two-year ban as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) investigates the controversy surrounding his calf injury during the second Test against England at Lord’s. According to reports, the PCB has issued a show-cause notice to the Pakistan opener and given him 48 hours to explain the circumstances surrounding the injury.

Imam did not bat in either innings during Pakistan’s 194-run defeat to England. After the match, the PCB sent Imam and six other players back to Pakistan as part of a major squad change ahead of the third Test in Birmingham. The board is now reportedly looking into the matter in detail.

A high-level investigation committee is expected to examine Imam’s case, while the PCB is also reportedly concerned about Mohammad Rizwan’s discipline. Both players could face strict action depending on the findings of the investigation and their responses to the board’s concerns.

PCB launches high-level probe into Imam-ul-Haq's lord's Test injury

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched a high-level investigation into Imam-ul-Haq’s injury during the second Test against England at Lord’s. According to Geo News, Imam could face a ban of up to two years if the board is not satisfied with his written response. His central contract could also be terminated.

Imam suffered a calf injury while fielding during England’s first innings at Lord’s. Scans reportedly showed a low-grade tear, which ruled him out of the rest of the match. He was later sent home along with six other players after Pakistan’s second heavy defeat in the series. Reports also suggest that Imam is seeking legal advice before responding to the PCB’s inquiry.

The controversy has become more serious because of an earlier incident in which Imam was reportedly accused of faking an injury. Meanwhile, Mohammad Rizwan is also expected to face questions over disciplinary concerns. Both Imam and Rizwan were released from Pakistan’s Test squad as part of major changes ahead of the third and final Test in Birmingham.

Old "Fake Injury" case from 2025 resurfaces amid new controversy

Imam-ul-Haq suffered a low-grade calf strain while fielding on the first day of the second Test at Lord’s. The injury ruled him out of Pakistan’s first innings, where they were bowled out for just 110 after England scored 290. He also could not bat in the second innings as Pakistan were chasing 389.

The latest injury has now brought attention to an earlier controversy involving Imam during Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand in March 2025. The PCB reportedly launched an inquiry after an incident on March 28, when a ball hit his right big toe during an indoor net session.

According to reports, a previous PCB inquiry committee held Imam responsible for allegedly faking the injury. The committee reportedly concluded that he had exaggerated or misrepresented his symptoms and misled the medical staff. It also found that he had deliberately tried to make himself unavailable for the opening ODI.

What a 2-year ban could mean for Imam-ul-Haq and Pakistan's Test future

A two-year ban could be a major setback for Imam-ul-Haq’s international career. The Pakistan opener could miss several important Test series and may find it difficult to regain his place in the team after such a long break.

For Pakistan, Imam’s absence would create another challenge in the Test batting lineup. The team would need to find a reliable replacement at the top of the order, especially as Pakistan look to build a stronger squad for future Test series.

The PCB’s investigation will now be closely watched by fans and the cricketing world. If Imam receives a two-year ban, it could have a serious impact on both his career and Pakistan’s plans for the future.