PAK vs SA 2025: Pakistan Coach Slams Batters After Repeated Collapses Against South Africa

Pakistan claimed a 93-run win over South Africa in the first Test at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, but the victory came with serious concerns about their batting. Despite being in a dominant position with a lead of 259 runs and six wickets in hand, Pakistan suffered a dramatic collapse, losing six wickets for just 17 runs in 45 minutes.

That meltdown set South Africa a target of 277, but Pakistan’s bowlers stepped up to defend it, bowling out the World Test Champions for 183.

Collapse Overshadows Victory

Head coach Azhar Mahmood did not hold back after the match, slamming the batters for poor shot selection and lack of application.

“We’ve only got ourselves to blame for giving South Africa a way back into the match,” Mahmood said. “From 150 for 4, we lost six wickets for just 17 runs. It wasn’t conditions or luck, it was our decision-making.”

The collapse followed a familiar pattern. In the first innings, Pakistan went from 199 for 2 to 199 for 5, losing three wickets for no runs. Mahmood said these repeated lapses were unacceptable at the international level.

“It’s quite simple, losing six wickets in 17 runs isn’t good enough,” he added. “If we’re going to play on these wickets, we must learn to bat properly.”

Rizwan and Salman Rescue Effort

There were bright spots too. Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha steadied the second innings with a brilliant 163-run stand, giving Pakistan a strong platform before the collapse began. Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam also made promising starts but failed to convert their 40s into big scores.

Mahmood pointed out that the pitch wasn’t as tough as it seemed.

“If you apply yourself, batting becomes easier. The pitch is slow, which makes it hard for new batters to settle, but it’s not unplayable,” he explained.

While Pakistan’s bowling unit delivered when it mattered, the team’s recurring batting collapses remain a major concern. Mahmood said the team will review the mistakes before the second Test.

“We need to adjust our shot selection and find different ways to score on these pitches,” he said. “The batters made an effort, but the pressure got to them.”

Pakistan lead the two-match series 1–0, but their fragile batting remains under the spotlight despite the win.