LAHORE: Pakistan batter Imam-ul-Haq could face a ban of up to two years following controversy surrounding his injury during the second Test against England at Lord’s, according to sources.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly preparing a high-level investigation committee to examine the circumstances surrounding Imam’s calf injury and his unavailability during the Test.
Sources said Imam could potentially receive a ban ranging from one to two years if the investigation establishes serious misconduct. The development has revived scrutiny of an earlier injury-related controversy involving the Pakistan batter.
Imam-ul-Haq Injury Investigation Could Lead to Ban
Imam-ul-Haq suffered a low-grade calf strain while fielding on the opening day of the Lord’s Test. He subsequently did not bat in Pakistan’s first innings, when the visitors were dismissed for just 110 in response to England’s 290.
He was also unavailable during Pakistan’s second innings as the team attempted to chase a target of 389. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 194, losing the Test and conceding the series.
The circumstances surrounding the injury reportedly prompted the PCB to launch a high-level investigation.
The latest Imam-ul-Haq injury controversy has also brought back questions about an incident during Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand in March 2025, when the batter was previously investigated over allegations of deliberately misrepresenting an injury.
According to sources, a PCB inquiry committee had held Imam responsible for allegedly fabricating, exaggerating or misrepresenting symptoms and misleading medical staff.
Previous Injury Controversy Puts Imam Under Scrutiny
The earlier incident reportedly took place on March 28, 2025, when a ball struck Imam’s right big toe during an indoor net session.
The inquiry committee reportedly concluded that Imam had deliberately attempted to make himself unavailable for Pakistan’s opening ODI of the tour.
The previous findings have now become relevant again as the PCB examines the latest Imam-ul-Haq injury controversy.
If the new investigation finds that the batter deliberately misrepresented his physical condition or breached team or board regulations, disciplinary action could follow.
However, the potential punishment will depend on the findings of the investigation and any evidence presented to the committee.
PCB Also Reviews Mohammad Rizwan’s Discipline
Imam-ul-Haq was not the only player facing scrutiny during the PCB’s latest Test squad overhaul.
Sources said the board also has serious concerns regarding wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan’s discipline and could take strict action against him.
Rizwan is reportedly expected to be questioned by the PCB in the coming days. Sources further claimed that he is unlikely to be selected for a Pakistan team in the immediate future.
Both Imam and Rizwan were among the players released by the PCB as part of sweeping changes to Pakistan’s Test squad ahead of the third and final Test against England.
The developments signal a tougher approach from the PCB as it reviews player discipline, fitness and conduct. The outcome of the Imam-ul-Haq injury investigation could determine whether the batter faces a lengthy suspension or other disciplinary measures.
