Mahmood Slams Pakistan’s Repeated Collapses After Defeat to South Africa

Rawalpindi, October 23, 2025 — Pakistan head coach Azhar Mahmood has expressed deep frustration over yet another lower-order collapse, describing the team’s repeated batting failures as “not acceptable” after an eight-wicket loss to South Africa in the second Test at Rawalpindi.

Pakistan appeared well placed early in their first innings but lost five wickets for just 17 runs, squandering a promising position and eventually falling short of a commanding total. South Africa capitalised, with allrounder Senuran Muthuswamy’s unbeaten 88 guiding the visitors to a crucial 71-run lead and ultimately levelling the two-match series 1-1.

“The first-innings collapse was where it started,” Mahmood said after the match. “We should have posted 400–425 from that position. This is the fourth time in two Tests that we’ve lost wickets cheaply down the order. It’s not acceptable — we need to take responsibility.”

Mahmood noted that the issue had been specifically addressed in pre-series training camps, but Pakistan’s batting unit once again failed to show the required resilience. “Whenever your top players get you to 270–300, the lower order’s contribution becomes vital,” he added.

The coach also acknowledged South Africa’s superior execution under pressure. “You have to give credit to them. Muthuswamy’s shot selection was perfect, and his partnerships with Maharaj and Rabada turned the game. Against quality sides, if you give them chances, they will punish you.”

Pakistan’s second-innings collapse — losing six wickets for 43 runs — left South Africa chasing a modest target, which they reached comfortably. Mahmood highlighted the team’s inability to adapt, noting that Pakistan’s approach lacked the proactive strike rotation that characterised the visitors’ batting. “You need mental toughness,” he said. “International cricket is about coping with pressure.”

The Rawalpindi defeat extended a worrying trend for Pakistan, whose third-innings collapses have repeatedly turned competitive Tests into losses. Mahmood admitted the team’s inconsistent Test schedule was partly to blame. “It’s a concern. We play very few Tests — four a year — and the players get together only every six months. These long gaps hurt preparation. We need more regular red-ball cricket.”

The drawn series offered little consolation for Pakistan, who once again found themselves ruing familiar shortcomings rather than celebrating progress.