Pakistan Cricket Board selection committee member Aaqib Javed has called for an investigation into Imam-ul-Haq's calf injury following Pakistan’s 194-run defeat to England in the second Test at Lord’s. The opener did not bat in either innings after hurting his left calf while fielding on the opening day.

“An inquiry will be conducted into this matter,” Javed, one of four members on the national selection panel, stated during an interview on Geo TV. “How is it possible that you failed to come out to bat in both innings after pulling up a muscle? Injuries do occur and we have seen instances in the past where players -- even with casts -- have gone out and made an effort. This situation is different. It is a matter of great concern, and action will be taken regarding it.”

Javed's comments align with widespread concern across Pakistani sports media, including critiques from former chief selector Mohammad Wasim. On Sunday, the fourth day of the match, Imam was seen on the outfield limping with his left calf heavily taped while shadow-batting.

Following back-to-back Test losses at Headingley and Lord’s, the PCB recalled seven players from the tour, along with head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul. White-ball head coach Mike Hesson and bowling coach Ashley Noffke are set to step in for the final Test beginning September 9 in Birmingham. The updated squad features five uncapped players alongside openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal, who hold a combined total of 10 Tests.

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The management shifts follow reports of friction between Javed and team leadership over squad selection ahead of the Lord's Test. Javed advocated for inserting pace bowler Ubaid Shah, wicketkeeper-batter Ghazi Ghori, and a fast-bowling allrounder into the side, which would have meant leaving out Mohammad Rizwan. Instead, the tour management opted only to bench Salman Ali Agha, who had captained the side during the first Test while Babar Azam was recovering from an injury.

“We can’t just keep waiting,” Javed said. “I had actually spoken to both the captain and the coach after the first test, suggesting they include Ubaid, who bowls at 140 kph. Agha was rightly rested, Ghazi Ghori was available on the tour and should have played instead of Rizwan.” (AP)