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Imam-ul-Haq's Calf Strain Puts Lord's Test Availability in Doubt

PCB scans confirmed a low-grade left calf strain, leaving Pakistan without a named replacement and raising short-term selection questions for the Lord's Test.

Overview

  • Scans carried out by the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed on Aug 28 that Imam-ul-Haq sustained a low-grade strain to his left calf after leaving the field when fielding on Aug 27.
  • The PCB said Imam is receiving treatment under team medical staff and that his participation for the remainder of the Test depends on how he responds to that treatment.
  • Pakistan were bowled out for 110 in their first innings at Lord's, giving England a 180-run first-innings lead and increasing the consequences of any top-order absence.
  • Former chief selector Mohammad Wasim publicly alleged that Imam has a history of faking injuries, citing the 2022 Multan Test, but commentators and other reports note the claim is unproven and lacks independent evidence.
  • With the match scheduled to finish on Aug 31 and no replacement named, selectors face a narrow recovery window and the risk that Imam's continued absence could force a batting reshuffle or deepen Pakistan's series deficit.