Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq is facing a disciplinary probe after not batting in either innings of his team's recent Test defeat against England at Lord's. Director of high performance and selector Aaqib Javed stated that action will be taken against the player, questioning the extent of his calf tear.
"The Imam injury is a big question mark, and a deep disappointment," Javed said in an interview with Pakistani television network Geo. "Players in the past used to get injuries, but they used to put on casts and still tried. We'll take action against this. How is it possible that a pulled muscle ruled you out of batting in both innings? He should have tried and fought. He'll have to face an inquiry; I can't say he faked it, but a muscle pull like that cannot stop you from batting altogether."
The Pakistan Cricket Board had announced on the second morning of the match that the 30-year-old had suffered a tear in his left calf, with medical advice set to determine his availability. However, Imam was later seen warming up with teammates, a move criticized by Sky Sports commentator Stuart Broad as "all for show." Imam did not bat in Pakistan's second innings, with Shan Masood deputizing as opener.
Imam's situation adds to a turbulent period for the touring Pakistan side, which has seen seven players sent home, Sarfaraz Ahmed removed as Test coach, and Misbah-ul-Haq resign from the selection committee. Javed expressed frustration with the team's performance, stating, "Two Test matches have come and gone and the team has not competed in any way."
Javed also criticized team selection, suggesting that players like fast bowler Ubaid Shah should have been included. "We should have included an allrounder, but most importantly, get in Ubaid Shah. One fast bowler changes the composition of your attack," he said. "The world is laughing at us because we can't even compete."
Javed defended the selectors' decisions regarding squad composition, stating that once players are on tour, match-to-match combinations are the responsibility of the captain, head coach, and management. He acknowledged that poor form and lack of competition necessitated making difficult decisions about player selections.