Imam-ul-Haq marks Test return with fluent fifty against South Africa

Lahore, 12 October 2025:

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq marked his return to Test cricket with a composed unbeaten half-century on the opening day of the first Test against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday.

Playing his first Test in nearly 22 months, his previous appearance came against Australia in December 2023, Imam made a confident comeback, reaching lunch unbeaten on 59. The 29-year-old’s innings, his 10th in excess of fifty in Test cricket, steadied Pakistan after an early wicket in the morning session.

Imam’s recall follows an impressive run of form across formats. Earlier this year, he enjoyed a prolific County stint with Yorkshire in England, scoring four List-A centuries and three half-centuries between July and August. His consistent performances drew attention from selectors ahead of the home season.

On returning to Pakistan, Imam continued his dominant form in the Hanif Mohammad Trophy, a non–first-class tournament, where he piled up 428 runs in three matches for Multan Region. His standout performance came with a marathon 330-run innings, reaffirming his readiness for a Test comeback.

Known for his solid technique and patient stroke play, Imam has been a mainstay in Pakistan’s white-ball sides, but his red-ball opportunities have been limited in recent years. His assured start in Lahore suggests he is eager to re-establish himself in the Test setup as Pakistan begin their new World Test Championship cycle.