![Imam-ul-Haq scores double-hundred in President's Trophy [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1792669744297_ImamUlHaqTest.jpg?type=hq)
Imam-ul-Haq scores double-hundred in President's Trophy [Source: AFP]
Imam-ul-Haq announced his return to competitive cricket with style on Thursday, as his departmental side, Oil and Gas Development Company Limited, faced Ghani in the President's Trophy. The left-hand batter racked up a double-ton in Lahore, sending a message to the board and selectors.
This was Imam-ul-Haq's first appearance since his controversial exit from the Test team earlier in the summer. He was out of action since his calf injury and subsequent snub in the middle of the England tour.
Imam-ul-Haq's statement return to FC cricket
Since Imam got injured in England, the batter did not bat in either innings of the Lord's Test, and Pakistan lost by 194 runs. In the aftermath, he was sent back home and is subject to an NCCIA investigation for allegations of online betting and gambling.
Due to the investigations, Imam was not allowed to take part in the President's Trophy until the final round of fixtures. On his return for the last match, the 30-year-old was immediately made captain of his side, OGDCL, against Ghani, and he immediately made a mark.
Upon winning the toss, he asked Ghani to bat first on October 19. The Noman Ali-led Ghani were bundled out for 232 runs in just over 75.3 overs, and in response, Imam-ul-Haq led OGDCL from the front and batted 543 minutes to complete his 200 in 311 balls, with the help of 19 fours and two sixes.
During his knock, he stitched a 68-run opening partnership with Ali Zaryab, followed by a 196-run second-wicket stand with Saad Khan. He carried the bat as they declared for 410, with a 178-run lead.
His team is under threat of being relegated to President's Trophy Grade-II Gold, so this is an important knock for his personal and team's ambitions, heading into the final day.
Can Imam-ul-Haq return to the Pakistan Test team?
Following Imam's return home during the England series, Saim Ayub was asked to open the batting in the final Test, where he returned with two ducks. So, one of the opening spots is still a bit up for grabs.
However, due to the recent injury controversy and subsequent axing from the side, he has dropped down the pecking order. Azan Awais has sealed his place at the top for the moment, while Abdullah Shafique and Abdullah Fazal are the other options, who have been around the setup recently.
In a nutshell, while at 30, there are still chances of a comeback, but Imam's return is unlikely in the foreseeable future. He can break down the doors with consistency in President's Trophy.
