Imam-ul-Haq Reportedly Faces PCB Action Over ‘Fake Injury’ Ahead of 3rd Test vs England
Imam-ul-Haq is reportedly facing release from the Pakistan squad for the third Test against England, with the PCB investigating his 'fake' calf injury. Pakistan trail 0-2 in the series, the decisive third Test is scheduled to begin on September 9, 2026, at Edgbaston, Birmingham.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly poised to take stringent action, with opener Imam-ul-Haq potentially facing release from the squad ahead of the third Test against England. His calf injury has come under intense scrutiny, with many deeming it 'fake', leading to calls for strict measures from the board. This development comes amidst a dismal tour for Pakistan, who are currently trailing England 0-2 in the three-match series. Former Chief Selector Mohammad Wasim Accuses Imam-ul-Haq of Faking Injuries Amid Calf-Injury in PAK vs ENG 2nd Test 2026.
Injury Under Scrutiny
According to a Geo News report, Imam-ul-Haq's calf problem gained notoriety after he was ruled out of Pakistan’s second innings at Lord’s, leaving the team without a regular top-order option during their chase. The opener had reported discomfort on the opening day of the Test. The circumstances surrounding his injury are now a focal point of investigation, with reports suggesting the PCB might send him home for further assessment of the injury's true nature.
Mohammad Rizwan's Poor Form and Team's Struggles
Compounding Pakistan's woes, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan is also reportedly in line to be released from the squad, Geo News reported. His inclusion comes after a series of underwhelming performances, notably scoring just one run in Pakistan's second innings at Lord's before being trapped lbw by Ollie Robinson. Pakistan suffered a heavy defeat by an innings and 103 runs in the series opener at Leeds and were thrashed by 194 runs at Lord's, setting the stage for potential squad overhauls.
Potential Replacements and Coaching Shake-Up
In anticipation of these changes, young talents Saim Ayub and Arafat Minhas are being considered as possible replacements for the upcoming third Test. The team's poor showing has also put Test team coach Sarfaraz Ahmed's position in jeopardy. There is speculation that Mike Hesson, Pakistan's white-ball coach, could be handed a more prominent role with the Test side ahead of the Birmingham match, hinting at a broader reshuffle within the coaching setup.
The third and final Test of the series is scheduled to commence on September 9, 2026, at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Pakistan will be looking to salvage some pride, but the looming disciplinary actions and squad changes suggest a turbulent period for the touring side. Imam-Ul-Haq Ruled Out of PAK vs ENG 2nd Test 2026 Due to Calf Tear: Report.
Key Facts Ahead of the Third Test:
- Match: England vs Pakistan, 3rd Test
- Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham
- Date: September 9, 2026
- Series Status: England lead 2-0 (Pakistan lost at Leeds by an innings & 103 runs, and at Lord's by 194 runs)
- Players Under Scrutiny: Imam-ul-Haq (calf injury/fake claims), Mohammad Rizwan (poor form)
- Potential Replacements: Saim Ayub, Arafat Minhas
- Coaching Impact: Sarfaraz Ahmed's position in doubt, Mike Hesson to potentially take a larger role
With the third Test on the horizon, the Pakistan team faces not only the challenge of a dominant England side but also significant internal restructuring, as the PCB seeks to address both player performance and alleged disciplinary issues.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 31, 2026 06:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
