Former Pakistan selector accuses Imam-ul-Haq of faking injury in 2022 Multan Test

Imam-ul-Haq suffered a left calf strain while fielding during the opening day of Pakistan’s second Test against England at Lord’s on Thursday evening, forcing him off the field during the session. The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed the injury through a scan, which revealed a low-grade calf strain. His participation in the remainder of the Test depends on treatment leading to recovery.

Former Pakistan chief selector Mohammad Wasim has made a serious allegation regarding Imam’s injury history. Wasim claimed that during the December 2022 Test in Multan, he was warned in advance by the physio that Imam would fake an injury. During that Test, Imam did suffer a hamstring issue and underwent an MRI scan at a hospital in Multan. He returned to bat in the second innings on the third day, scoring 60 as Pakistan lost by 26 runs.

“Scans later confirmed a low-grade calf strain and Imam is currently receiving treatment under the supervision of the Pakistan medical team. His participation in the remainder of the Test depends on treatment leading to recovery,” PCB said in a statement before Day 2’s play.

“In 2022 Multan test, the physio warned me in advance that he is going to fake an injury soon. And he did that,” Wasim said as quoted by Cricket News.

Imam-ul-Haq’s injury was only one part of Pakistan’s miserable outing at Lord’s, as England completely dominated the second Test with the ball. After being bowled out for 290 in their first innings, the hosts responded brilliantly by dismissing Pakistan for just 110 in only 37.2 overs, taking a commanding 180-run first-innings lead.

Ollie Robinson produced a sensational spell, finishing with 4 for 11 from 13 overs, including six maidens, as Pakistan’s batting lineup struggled to cope with the movement and relentless accuracy. Jofra Archer provided excellent support with 3 for 26, while Josh Tongue claimed two wickets to keep the pressure firmly on the visitors. Gus Atkinson was the only England seamer to finish without a wicket.

England continued to tighten their grip on the match in the second innings. By the close of Day 2, they had reached 81 for 3, extending their overall lead to 261 runs before bad light brought play to an early end. With Pakistan already under immense pressure, England entered the third day firmly in control of the contest.