Why Imam-Ul-Haq is Not Opening Innings For Pakistan in PAK vs ENG 2nd Test 2026 at Lord's?
Imam-Ul-Haq is reportedly sidelined and not opening for Pakistan in the 2nd Test against England at Lord's, which began on August 27 and continues until August 31, 2026. This tactical change is speculated to follow performance reviews after the 1st Test, as Pakistan progresses in its ICC World Test Championship campaign.
As Day 2 of PAK vs ENG 2nd Test 2026 between England and Pakistan at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground gets underway, the visitors' suffered a massive blow with opener Imam-ul-Haq being under a medical assessment for a calf injury. This saw a significant change at the top of Pakistan's batting order, with seasoned opener not coming out to open the innings, with Azan Awais coming with former captain Shan Masood. Pakistan vs England Live Streaming Online and Free Telecast in India, 2nd Test 2026, Day 2.
Why Imam-Ul-Haq is Not Opening Innings For Pakistan in PAK vs ENG 2nd Test 2026 at Lord's?
Imam-ul-Haq sustained a left calf strain while fielding on the opening day of the Test match. Subsequent scans confirmed a low-grade strain, and he is currently undergoing treatment with Pakistan's medical staff. His further involvement in the match will depend on how quickly he responds to rehabilitation.
Performance Under Scrutiny
Imam-Ul-Haq, who celebrated his 30th birthday on December 22, 1995, has been a consistent presence at the top for Pakistan in Test cricket for several years, known for his left-handed solidity. His last recorded Test appearance was against Bangladesh on May 8, 2026. Surrey Head Groundsman Lee Fortis Placed on Leave After Altercation With ECB Employee.
However, the England tour, particularly after the 1st Test, appears to have put the star opener under the microscope. Imam was dismissed for a pair of ducks at Headingley, falling victim to the pace and movement of Jofra Archer and Ollie Robinson.
The PAK vs ENG 2nd Test at Lord's sees Pakistan fighting back after their heavy defeat at Headingley. Bowling first on a helpful surface, Pakistan’s pace attack, led by Mohammad Abbas and Mohammed Ali Shah, struck early blows to dismantle England’s top order. England mounted a counter-attack through middle and late-order resilience to post a competitive first-innings total (290 all-out).
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 28, 2026 04:51 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
