Aaqib Javed vows action over Imam-ul-Haq injury, says inquiry will follow

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) High-Performance Director and selection committee member Aaqib Javed has criticised opener Imam-ul-Haq for failing to bat in either innings of the Lord’s Test, saying the player will face an inquiry over his injury.

Speaking to Geo News, Javed said Imam’s injury had raised serious questions, particularly because he had suffered what was described as a minor calf strain but did not bat during the remainder of the Test.

“I cannot say that Imam-ul-Haq faked his injury, but a muscle strain cannot be a reason for a player to completely stay out of batting in both innings,” Javed said. He added that players were expected to make an effort to take the field despite minor injuries, saying Imam should have attempted to bat and compete.

“We will take action on this matter, and Imam-ul-Haq will have to face an inquiry,” Javed said.

Questions over Imam’s fitness

Imam sustained a minor strain to his left calf during the Lord’s Test. The PCB had said ahead of the second day’s play that his participation in the remainder of the match would depend on medical advice.

Although he did not bat over the following two days, Imam was seen warming up with the rest of the squad on the fourth morning. His fitness also drew criticism from former England fast bowler Stuart Broad, while Australia’s David Warner questioned the situation on social media.

Aaqib defends sweeping changes

The comments came after the PCB made major changes following Pakistan’s defeat at Lord’s, sending seven players, including Imam, back home. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were also removed, while former captain Misbah-ul-Haq resigned from the selection panel following the changes.

Javed defended the decisions, saying Pakistan had played two Tests without appearing competitive and that changes were therefore necessary.

“Someone had to take action because the world was laughing at Pakistan cricket, saying the team was not even competing,” he said.

Javed argued that Pakistan had options available, including an all-rounder, a wicketkeeper and fast bowler Ubaid Shah, who could bowl at around 140 kilometres per hour, but they were not used.

He said he had recommended Ubaid’s inclusion to captain Babar Azam and the coach, pointing out that Pakistan’s other fast bowlers were operating at broadly similar speeds.

Javed also questioned the decision to play Mohammad Rizwan as wicketkeeper instead of giving Ghazi Ghori an opportunity. He described Salman Ali Agha’s omission because of poor form as understandable.

Javed rules out resignation

Javed said he had no intention of resigning, unlike Misbah-ul-Haq, and maintained that responsibility for selecting and managing the team was shared between the captain and coaching staff.

He said players selected for important tours were expected to demonstrate greater commitment and performance, particularly when the team was under pressure.

Support pledged for Mike Hesson

Javed also backed incoming head coach Mike Hesson, promising the PCB would provide him with full support.

“One person does not run a team. The coach and captain run it together,” he said, adding that Hesson had taken charge and would receive the board’s support.

Javed acknowledged that turning results around in a single match would be difficult but said Pakistan still had considerable talent.

Pakistan will play the third Test against England at Edgbaston from September 9.