Pakistan batter Imam-ul-Haq is once again at the center of a severe controversy regarding the legitimacy of an injury during the Lord’s Test against England. The top-order batter did not bat in either innings after sustaining a Grade 1 tear in his left calf while fielding on the first day, during which he dropped two key catches. However, reports from Pakistan suggest this is far from an isolated incident.
According to a report by Geo.tv, a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) inquiry committee in 2025 previously found Imam guilty of misrepresenting a toe injury during a tour of New Zealand and recommended a complete ban across all formats. The committee discovered no medical evidence, X-rays, or physical signs of fracture to justify his unfitness. The investigation concluded that Imam had exaggerated his condition to avoid facing New Zealand’s formidable fast bowlers on challenging green pitches.
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The latest incident at Lord’s has drawn public criticism from former England fast bowler turned broadcaster Stuart Broad. After Imam limped off the field following a brief throwdown session prior to Day 4, Broad openly questioned the batter’s theatrics on Sky Sports, stating he was “not impressed” and suggesting the public display was merely “for show” to deflect media and dressing-room criticism. With the PCB reportedly preparing to launch another official inquiry into his latest calf injury, Imam’s future in the national side hangs by a thread.
