Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam was pleased with the seven-wicket win over South Africa in the first Test and said that this win was necessary for the team.
Before facing South Africa, Pakistan faced a humiliating defeat and whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the two-match series.
Pakistan lost by 101 runs in Mount Maunganui and then by innings and 176 runs in Christchurch.This led to the Pakistani team receiving severe criticism for their subpar performance after the recently concluded New Zealand tour.
Despite the home advantage, the seven-wicket win over South Africa in the first Test match has provided some confidence for the Pakistan team.
Babar Azam emphasized on the fact that the win was necessary for Pakistan especially after their defeats in New Zealand.
“This win was very necessary for our group. The last series in New Zealand didn’t go very well. Yes, this was in home conditions but South Africa is a top Test side. Everyone from our fast bowlers, fielders, spinners, and batsmen contributed,” Babar Azam said during the post-match presentation.
When questioned about the reports about the dressing room problems after the massive loss in New Zealand, Babar Azam dismissed it. He further added that the team’s focus is on bouncing back from failures.
“Yes, there were some rumors but they [Misbah and Waqar] weren’t worried before the start of the Test. They were just like they always are in the dressing room. Sometimes results take time, sometimes you have to realize that the series doesn’t go your way. The trick is to learn from failures and come back from them.” he said.
Azam, who was captaining the Pakistani team for the first time in Test cricket said that he’s trying to improve the confidence and belief in the team after the rough patch.
“We have been telling the players to be confident. I don’t want them to take pressure after one innings wondering what will happen. You cannot be perfect. You will make mistakes. That’s what I and Misbah have been trying to convey to all the players. We want the players to believe in themselves and have confidence in their game,” he said.
The second Test match between Pakistan and South Africa will start from February 4, 2021.
