Imam Faces Possible Ban Over Injury Controversy
News Desk
London: What began as an injury setback for Pakistan batter Imam-ul-Haq during the Lord’s Test has now developed into a matter of wider concern for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), with questions emerging over player conduct, medical reporting and trust within the national setup.
The PCB is reportedly preparing to establish a high-level committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding Imam’s calf injury during the second Test against England.
Sources said the inquiry could have significant consequences for the left-handed batter. If the investigation finds evidence of misconduct, Imam could face a suspension of one to two years, although any disciplinary action would depend on the committee’s conclusions.
The latest controversy has also reopened an earlier chapter involving Imam.
During Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand in March 2025, the batter was reportedly investigated after claiming an injury following a blow to his right big toe during an indoor training session on March 28.
According to sources, the inquiry at the time concluded that Imam had exaggerated or misrepresented his symptoms and had misled members of the medical staff. The committee reportedly determined that he had deliberately attempted to avoid selection for Pakistan’s opening ODI.
The new investigation means the PCB will now be looking closely at whether similar questions arise from Imam’s latest absence.
At Lord’s, Imam suffered a low-grade calf strain while fielding on the opening day. He subsequently did not bat in Pakistan’s first innings, as the visitors were dismissed for just 110 after England had posted 290.
His absence continued into Pakistan’s second innings. Chasing 389 for victory, Pakistan were bowled out for 194, handing England the Test and the series.
While injuries are a routine part of professional cricket, questions surrounding the circumstances of a player’s availability can become particularly sensitive when national-team selection and medical assessments are involved.
The situation has also widened beyond Imam. According to sources, the PCB has raised concerns over the discipline of wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and is considering questioning him over the matter.
Rizwan could also remain outside Pakistan’s immediate plans, although the board has yet to determine what action, if any, will be taken against him.
Both Imam and Rizwan were among the players left out as the PCB reshaped Pakistan’s Test squad ahead of the third and final match against England.
The developments point to a broader shift in the board’s approach to managing the national team, with greater emphasis reportedly being placed on discipline, professional conduct and transparency surrounding player fitness.
For the PCB, the Imam case is therefore about more than one missed innings. It raises questions about the relationship between players, medical teams and selectors, and whether established procedures are being followed when players report injuries.
Any decision against Imam could also carry implications beyond his individual career, particularly if the board establishes a stronger precedent for dealing with alleged misrepresentation of injuries.
For now, no final disciplinary decision has been announced. The proposed investigation will determine whether the concerns surrounding Imam’s injury warrant further action and whether the episode becomes a defining moment in the PCB’s effort to strengthen accountability within Pakistan cricket.
