‘I am not impressed’: Stuart Broad questions Imam-ul-Haq’s injury

Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad has questioned Pakistan batter Imam-ul-Haq’s conduct after he was ruled out of the second Test against England with a calf injury.

Imam suffered a low-grade strain to his left calf while fielding on the opening day of the Test at Lord’s. He received treatment from Pakistan’s medical staff before being ruled out of the remainder of the match the following day.

On the fourth day, Imam was seen practising his batting on the sidelines with his injured calf taped. He was also seen hobbling as he knocked the ball around.

The footage prompted criticism from Broad, who suggested the practice session was unnecessary and appeared aimed at being seen by the media and fans.

“That’s all for show. He has got a bit of stick from media and maybe his teammates. Whatever. You can do that inside the indoor school without anyone seeing, don’t have to come wearing shorts and tape and hobble around like that. I am not impressed with that. Sorry,” Broad said on Sky Sports.

Broad later added: “He could have practised comfortably and alone in the indoor facility, but he is coming out suddenly with half-shots and heavy tapping. It’s more like showing to the media and fans, and sorry, I am not impressed at all.”

Broad’s comments came after former Pakistan batter and chief selector Mohammad Wasim had previously raised concerns about Imam’s injury history.

Wasim recalled an incident from 2022 in which the team physiotherapist allegedly told him that an injury-related issue involving Imam could arise before any official decision or announcement had been made.