After Pakistan’s commanding 93-run victory over South Africa in the first Test in Lahore, captain Shan Masood and head coach Azhar Mahmood emphasized the importance of consistency and tactical improvement ahead of the second Test in Rawalpindi. While the win highlighted Pakistan’s strength on home soil, both Masood and Mahmood warned that there were areas in need of urgent attention, particularly the middle-order batting and shot selection under pressure.
Masood praised the team for their disciplined performance, especially the spin bowling of Noman Ali, whose 10-wicket haul turned the match decisively in Pakistan’s favor. He acknowledged that the victory was a morale booster but cautioned that one win should not lead to complacency. “We have shown what we are capable of, but cricket is a game of consistency. We cannot afford to be inconsistent in our batting or decision-making if we want to dominate this series,” Masood said. He stressed that while the team capitalized on favorable pitch conditions, reliance on such factors alone would not guarantee continued success.
Coach Azhar Mahmood highlighted that the first Test, despite the win, exposed several vulnerabilities, particularly in the middle order. Pakistan’s lower middle order collapsed at crucial junctures, nearly allowing South Africa to mount a comeback. Mahmood pointed out that 11 wickets fell for just 37 runs across both innings, with a particularly dramatic collapse in the second innings where six wickets fell for only 17 runs. He noted that poor shot selection and rushed decision-making contributed to these collapses, emphasizing the need for patience and calculated play in challenging situations.
Both Masood and Mahmood agreed that the upcoming second Test in Rawalpindi would provide an opportunity to consolidate Pakistan’s dominance but also serve as a test of mental resilience and tactical maturity. They highlighted the importance of middle-order stability, urging batters to build partnerships, rotate the strike effectively, and avoid unnecessary risks against South Africa’s pace and spin attack. Mahmood stated, “The team must learn from the first Test. We cannot allow collapses to happen in the middle overs. Composure and clarity in shot selection will be critical.”
The captain also focused on fielding and bowling discipline as complementary areas requiring attention. While Noman Ali’s performance was exemplary, Masood emphasized that the team cannot rely on individual brilliance alone. Maintaining tight lines, minimizing extras, and creating pressure through consistent bowling and sharp fielding were key to sustaining momentum throughout the series.
In addition to technical adjustments, Masood spoke about the psychological aspect of cricket, stressing that consistency in mindset is as important as consistency in performance. Players must remain focused, confident, and adaptable, responding to the match situation rather than being dictated by pressure moments. This approach, he believes, will allow Pakistan to maintain their competitive edge and secure a series win.
As Pakistan prepares to face South Africa in Rawalpindi, the emphasis on consistency, middle-order stability, and intelligent shot selection will be central to their strategy. Both Masood and Mahmood made it clear that while the first Test was encouraging, the real measure of the team’s strength will be in maintaining discipline and performance throughout the series. The second Test will be a crucial opportunity for Pakistan to demonstrate not only skill but also the mental resilience and strategic acumen necessary for sustained success.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025