Pakistan Cricket has recently been marred by a number of disappointing incidents, and the recent comeback is a key factor. Following a disappointing performance in a two-game series against South Africathe Pakistani team has been punished for a slow decline in the second Test match. This penalty includes not only fines but also significant deductions The World Test Championship (WTC).adding to their problems.
Consequences of the dangerous series in Pakistan
Pakistan entered the Test series against South Africa on a high note after winning the ODI series. However, their confidence was quickly dashed when they suffered a narrow victory in the first Test, which was followed by a humiliating 10-wicket loss in the second Test. This defeat was particularly painful as it was their second loss in a row, making South Africa's best ever.
In the second Test, Pakistan's batsmen failed by five overs, resulting in a fine of 25% of their match and a deduction of five WTC points. The penalties were imposed by Richie Richardson from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after review by the on-field umpires Kumar Dharmasena and Nitin Menonalong with a third trumpeter Alex Wharf and the fourth referee Stephen Harris. Shan Masoodthe pilot, admitted that the group is slowly shrinking, which has been a problem for Pakistan throughout the WTC.
Also READ: Pakistan captain Shan Masood has broken his silence on controversial DRS decisions in SA vs PAK 2nd Test.
An example of multiple problems
This is not the first time that Pakistan has faced sanctions for slow downs. Earlier in 2023, he was suspended for points on the wrestling test Australia and in August 2024 in the home series against Bangladesh. The recurring issues highlight the challenges that need to be overcome if Pakistan hopes to raise its cricketing standing in the world.
ICC rules state that teams are fined 5% of their fee for every match they win missing the required number. In addition, in a short period of time, one point of WTC is removed from the whole group. With these sanctions met, Pakistan's position on the WTC scale has become difficult.
Poor performance by Pakistan in the second Test
The second Test against South Africa was not too difficult for Pakistan. After being put into bat following South Africa's first innings victory of 615 runs, Pakistan struggled to improve their batting line-up. Despite Masood's best effort of 145 runs in the second innings, he lacked support from his teammates, leading to another disappointing result.
The match ended with South Africa chasing just 58 runs without losing any wickets, sealing their victory and securing their place in the WTC final against Australia. This crushing defeat not only reflects Pakistan's performance but also raises questions about their preparedness and strategy going forward.