ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s lackluster performance in a recent Test series against South Africa, also known as the Proteas, has triggered sharp criticism from the former Pakistani cricketers and fans who appeared to be extremely frustrated over the dreary middle order and the absent aggressive approach from the fast bowlers.
Some of them suggested that the coaching staff must bear some responsibility for the disappointing outcomes.
Former Pakistani cricketer and analyst Basit Ali shared his reflections on Pakistan’s recent Test series whitewash against South Africa, acknowledging the sting of the losses while also recognising the strength of the rival team.
Ali expressed concern over the lack of bowlers capable of consistently hitting speeds above 140 kilometers per hour (kph) in the Test squad, stressing the necessity for genuine pace on competitive tracks.
“Every rise has a fall, and every fall has a rise. These defeats should serve as wake-up calls for Pakistan ahead of crucial events.”
Despite the setbacks, Ali highlighted some positives, notably the return of pacer Muhammad Abbas after a three-year hiatus. He noted, “The world saw that Abbas still has the potential, especially on lively pitches.”
While praising Shan Masood’s responsible innings, he admitted it was slower on the second day, stating, “The team’s poor first innings, where they managed only 194, was a critical turning point.”
On South Africa’s bowling prowess, he commended their expertise in reverse swing, highlighting Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada’s skill that troubled Pakistan’s batsmen. He also lauded spinner Keshav Maharaj for exploiting Pakistan’s hesitance, asserting, “Maharaj bowled fearlessly, while our batters failed to counter him effectively.”
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Cricket-enthused fans in Islamabad, brimming with frustration, lamented the lack of formidable batting talent in the current squad, reminiscing about the likes of Javed Miandad, Younis Khan, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Misbah, players who could anchor an innings for days. “We’re even struggling to make it through 50 overs in ODIs,” expressed Usman Farooq, a passionate cricket follower. “While our recent ODI performances have shown some promise, the middle and lower order have consistently let us down.”
He had pinned high hopes on Babar Azam to deliver substantial innings, but the star batsman has faltered in converting 50s into centuries. Similarly, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Rizwan, Salman Agha, and Aamir Jamal all failed to meet expectations, with skipper Shan Masood shinning only in the final innings of the second Test.
Fans also directed their ire at the Pakistani bowling unit, criticising the lack of aggression and pace. Only Muhammad Abbas, making a return after three years, showcased resilience with his consistent line and length. The rest of the bowling attack, however, left fans feeling disappointed and yearning for the fierce competitiveness that once defined the team.
With vital players like Saim Ayub out due to injuries, the team’s management is at a crossroads, needing to make pivotal choices about player selections and game strategies. As discontent simmers within the cricketing community, there’s an urgent need for Pakistan to regroup.
With the Champions Trophy looming on the horizon, the team must reassess its tactics, embrace new talent, and bolster its strategies to regain its competitive spirit. Fans are filled with optimism, hoping that Pakistan will emerge from this challenging period and showcase a revitalised performance in the matches to come.
Former cricketer Tanveer Ahmed voiced his disappointment with Pakistan’s 2-0 Test series defeat against South Africa, emphasising on ongoing challenges in both batting and bowling.
Reflecting on the second Test, where Pakistan lost by 10 wickets, he acknowledged the spirited effort from Shan Masood and Babar Azam.
“The way Shan and Babar batted in the second innings was commendable. Their 200-run partnership nullified the new ball and frustrated South Africa’s bowlers. It was unlucky for Shan not to notch 150, and Babar just missed a century,” he noted.
Ahmed praised Babar for silencing critics with his consistent performance in South Africa, stating, “After struggling in Pakistan, he regained his form and delivered three impactful innings. This bodes well for Pakistan cricket.”
However, he was critical of middle-order batsmen Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha, highlighting their difficulties in challenging overseas conditions. “They excel on spinning tracks in Pakistan but falter against fast bowlers on bouncy pitches abroad. They must step up,” he remarked.
Concerned about Pakistan’s bowling, Tanveer described it as “ordinary,” lamenting the loss of the aggression that once defined the team. He concluded by stressing the need for accountability within the coaching staff, stating, “Coaches and management must share responsibility for these poor performances.”
As South Africa secured their spot in the World Test Championship final, Pakistan faces pressing questions about their preparedness for upcoming challenges, including the West Indies series.
