Sarfaraz Ahmed denied knowing about the Pakistan Cricket Board's tour threat. This alleged threat surfaced after an interview with Imran Khan's sons aired. The sons expressed deep concern for their father's well-being in prison. The Pakistan Cricket Board formally complained to Sky Sports about the interview. The England and Wales Cricket Board sought government advice regarding the situation.

The interview was conducted on Wednesday at Lord's and broadcast during the lunch break on the first day of the second Test

In the interview which was eventually aired, Imran Khan’s sons accused the Pakistani government of ‘trying to kill’ the former Prime Minister.