PCB launches high-level probe into Imam-ul-Haq injury, reviving past controversy

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to launch a high-level investigation into opener Imam-ul-Haq's recent calf injury, according to available reports. The decision intensifies scrutiny on the matter, which has already brought a 2025 controversy back into the spotlight.

The Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) investigation into Imam-ul-Haq's current calf injury has taken a new turn, with reports that the board is reviewing the case in light of a 2025 inquiry that accused the batter of fabricating an injury.

Sources revealed details of an incident from March 2025 during a tour of New Zealand. An inquiry committee at the time concluded that Imam had deliberately attempted to make himself unavailable for a match by misleading medical staff about a toe injury. The committee found that a black mark on his toe, which he claimed was from the injury, was "ink or marker" and not blood. It also noted that he was observed walking normally when not under supervision.

The 2025 inquiry report had recommended that Imam be barred from representing Pakistan in all formats, describing the incident as "deliberate, pre-planned and deceptive."

The resurfacing of this past controversy adds pressure on the opening batter, who was recently sent home from the ongoing tour of England after being ruled out of the second Test with a calf injury.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked white-ball head coach Mike Hesson to become involved with the Test team for the remainder of the England tour. Hesson, who was already in London, is now expected to join the Test squad for the third and final match in Birmingham, which begins on September 9.

Reports suggest Hesson will be present in the dressing room during the match. This move places the future of current red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed under significant pressure, with sources indicating he could be removed from his position after the tour concludes. The PCB may eventually entrust Hesson with coaching responsibilities across all three formats.

Following Pakistan's heavy defeat in the Lord's Test, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated a high-level investigation into opener Imam-ul-Haq's calf injury. The move comes amid media speculation and claims from some former cricketers that the injury, which prevented him from batting in the match, may not be genuine.

In a separate development, the position of Test team head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed is reportedly in jeopardy. According to available reports, white-ball head coach Mike Hesson is expected to take over responsibilities for the third and final Test in Birmingham and may be appointed as the permanent Test coach after the series.