LONDON: Former English fast bowler Stuart Broad has taken a dig at Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq after the batter did not show up to bat in either innings of the second Test against England at Lord’s.
Imam sustained a strain to his left calf while fielding on the opening day of the Test on Thursday and was subsequently replaced in the field by Salman Ali Agha.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) later confirmed that scans revealed a low-grade calf strain, and Imam received treatment from the team’s medical staff.
However, the opener did not bat in either innings as Pakistan suffered a heavy 194-run defeat on Sunday to concede an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Imam’s absence attracted further attention after Pakistan’s batting collapsed in the second innings, with the visitors bowled out for 194 in 50.5 overs while chasing 389.
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During the pre-match analysis on day four, Broad took aim at Imam after the Pakistan batter was seen training in shorts with medical tape around his injured leg and appearing to limp.
The former England pacer questioned why Imam needed to make his rehabilitation so visible, arguing that he could have completed his recovery work away from public view.
Broad suggested the display was unnecessary, particularly given the criticism Imam had received over his absence.
“That’s all for show. He’s had a bit of stick from the media, maybe teammates, whatever. You can do that in an indoor school without anyone seeing,” Broad said.
“You don’t have to wear shorts and a bit of tape and hobble around like that. I’m sorry, I’m not that impressed with that.”
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