Pakistan face an Imam-ul-Haq injury concern ahead of day two of the second Test against England at Lord’s. The opening batter suffered a low-grade calf strain while fielding on Thursday.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the injury on Friday. Imam felt discomfort in his left calf during the opening day and subsequently left the field.
Medical scans later confirmed a low-grade strain. Pakistan’s medical team has started treatment and will continue to monitor the batter’s condition closely.
The PCB said Imam’s participation in the remainder of the Test will depend on his recovery. The team will assess his progress before deciding whether he can return to action.
Imam-ul-Haq Injury Adds to Pakistan’s Problems
Imam’s injury forced Pakistan to make a temporary change in the field. Salman Ali Agha replaced him as a substitute fielder.
Salman captained Pakistan in the first Test at Headingley. However, he did not make the playing XI for the Lord’s Test.
Despite starting the match as a substitute, Salman quickly made his presence felt. He took an outstanding catch to dismiss England batter Jordan Cox.
Cox had played a patient innings before his dismissal. He scored 55 runs from 105 deliveries and struck seven fours.
Khurram Shahzad claimed Cox’s wicket. Salman then completed a spectacular catch to his right. He timed his jump well and held the ball with his outstretched right hand.
The catch gave Pakistan an important moment during the match. It also showed the value of having experienced players available on the field.
Pakistan Await Imam’s Recovery
The Imam-ul-Haq injury comes after the opener struggled for consistency in the first Test. Imam scored 42 runs in Pakistan’s first innings at Headingley.
He could not add to Pakistan’s total in the second innings. England dismissed him for a duck as Pakistan suffered a heavy innings-and-103-run defeat.
Pakistan will be looking for a much stronger response at Lord’s. The second Test gives the visitors an opportunity to level the series and put pressure back on England.
Imam remains an important part of Pakistan’s batting plans. His ability to provide stability at the top of the order could prove valuable as the Test progresses.
For now, Pakistan’s medical staff will focus on his recovery. The team will make a decision about his availability after assessing his condition.
The PCB has not provided a specific recovery timeline. Pakistan will therefore wait for further medical updates before confirming Imam’s role for the remainder of the match.
