Zulqarnain had to wait more than three years for his next international match. In July 2010, Pakistan toured England for four Tests, five ODIs, and two T20Is; Haider was included in the touring squad. After a pair and several missed chances behind the stumps, Akmal was dropped in favour of Zulqarnain. In the first match, Zulqarnain was dismissed on the first ball by fast bowler Stuart Broad, and nearly succumbed to his first ball in the second match. Initially, he was given out to spinner Graeme Swann, Zulqarnain then reviewed the decision and was survived. He exploited the opportunity and made 88 runs before getting dismissed, and enthusiastically celebrated his half-century. Days later, it was revealed that Haider had suffered a fractured finger that could have been exacerbated after being hit on the hand by a throw from Stuart Broad. He played no further part in the series. When Pakistan played South Africa in October 2010 for two T20Is and five ODIs, Zulqarnain was included in the 15-man squad as the only wicket-keeper. In the first four ODIs, he took three catches and scored just 48  runs.
