Aaqib Javed Questions Imam’s Injury, Defends Pakistan’s Major Team Overhaul

Pakistan PCB high-performance director Aaqib Javed has questioned Imam-ul-Haq’s decision not to bat during either innings of the Lord’s Test against England and said the opener will face an inquiry over his calf injury.

Imam was ruled out of the remainder of the second Test after suffering a low-grade tear in his left calf. However, Aaqib expressed disappointment over the decision, suggesting that the injury should not have completely prevented Imam from attempting to bat.

“The Imam injury is a big question mark, and a deep disappointment,” Aaqib said in an interview with Geo. “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.”

Imam was among seven players recalled by the PCB following Pakistan’s heavy defeat to England at Lord’s. The sweeping changes also saw head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul removed from their positions.

Aaqib said the overhaul was intended to send a strong message to the players and team management after Pakistan failed to compete in the opening two Tests.

“Two Test matches have come and gone and the team has not competed in any way,” he said. “The message we're sending to the recalled players is that you have to raise your game on important tours and compete, and we should be able to see some effort.”

He also criticised the team's combination, pointing out that Pakistan had pace-bowling options such as Ubaid Shah available but did not use them. Aaqib argued that including a genuine fast bowler could have changed the balance of the attack.

The PCB's decision has triggered a wider reshuffle, with Misbah-ul-Haq resigning from the selection panel following the squad changes. Aaqib, however, said he had no plans to step down and defended the original squad selection, placing responsibility for the poor performances on the captain, coach and team management.

Mike Hesson, who has taken charge as Pakistan's Test head coach, will receive Aaqib's full support ahead of the third Test. Aaqib admitted that Pakistan may struggle to produce an immediate turnaround but insisted the country's cricket system still has enough talent.

The third Test against England is scheduled to begin on September 9 at Edgbaston.