The Pakistan cricket team, fresh off a challenging Test series loss to South Africa, is now gearing up to host the West Indies for a two-match Test series in Multan.

While the 0-2 whitewash against the Proteas was a bitter pill to swallow, it was not devoid of encouraging signs that could pave the way for future success.

Despite a gut-wrenching whitewash defeat against South Africa, Pakistan are all set to play their last WTC 2023-25 cycle as they host West Indies.

Although Pakistan can’t make it to the final of the coming World Test Championship final, which is now a South Africa and Australia affair at Lord’s in June this year, Pakistan will now in the next cycle of this of event to start with West Indies series.

Pakistan cricket’s journey over the past year has been a tale of resilience, strategy, and bold decision-making.

From the gloom of crushing defeats to the hope of revival, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has laid a foundation for sustained success, notably as the host nation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Highlights from the South Africa Tour

Although Pakistan lost the Test series to South Africa yet they did fight and there was no surrender. South Africa won the second Test comfortably by 10 wickets in the final session on Day 4 to clinch the Test series 2-0 but it was, no doubt, after Pakistan n surmounted 478 in their second innings, a remarkable effort with the bat after being forced to follow on.

Earlier in the first Test Pakistan lost by a narrow margin of two wickets after nearly pulling off a thrilling victory. Set a modest target of 148, the Proteas were reduced to 99 for 8 at one stage, but a tense ninth-wicket partnership between Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen denied Pakistan the win. Mohammad Abbas, making a comeback after three years, was the star performer, taking career-best figures of 6 for 54 in the second innings. Pakistan’s Test series in South Africa showcased resilience despite the eventual defeat.

One thing more during the recent tour of Pakistan tour to South Africa for Test series there had several areas of concern which led to series loss.

With Pakistan already without their key pacer Shaheen Afridi in the squad, the other pacers should have been adjusted properly in the second Test playing XI as this was a pressure encounter to a great extent.

Moreover there was a criticism over the lack of application and determination from some batsmen who were unable to perform under pressure situations.

Concerns and
Criticism

Several factors contributed to the series loss. The absence of Shaheen Afridi in the squad was a major setback, and the decision to exclude Naseem Shah from the second Test XI drew criticism, especially given the high-pressure nature of the encounter. Additionally, the lack of consistency and application from some batters under challenging conditions left much to be desired.

Learning from Defeat

Despite the defeat, the tour had its positives. The bowling unit, led by Abbas, showed promise, and the team’s fighting spirit in tough situations highlighted their potential. However, to achieve consistency, Pakistan’s think tank must address these shortcomings and learn from past mistakes.

A New Chapter Against West Indies

With the West Indies now in Pakistan, the upcoming series presents a chance for redemption. Led by Kraigg Brathwaite, the Windies are a balanced and competitive side that cannot be underestimated. The two-match series at the Multan Cricket Stadium will also mark Pakistan’s final assignment in the current ICC World Test Championship cycle. While Pakistan is no longer in contention for the WTC final, the series offers an opportunity to build momentum for the next cycle.

With West Indies cricketers already in Pakistan preparing for Test series against the hosts Pakistan, it is high time for Pakistan think tank to mull the positives and negatives of Pakistan team’s recent tour of South Africa.

Hope Pakistan cricketers learn from their recent Test series loss in South Africa. Similarly it is also high time for the team management, selectors to strategise to their best provide better results.

Future Outlook

Pakistan’s cricketing journey over the past year has been one of highs and lows. Under the interim leadership of head coach Aaqib Javed and a restructured selection committee, the team has adopted a more strategic approach, particularly in home conditions. As the hosts of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan must ensure sustained progress to remain competitive on the global stage.

Call to Action

The road ahead requires a sharper focus on grassroots development, better management of player resources, and strategic planning. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) must capitalize on the lessons learned during the South Africa series and provide the team with the necessary support to deliver consistent results.

With the West Indies series on the horizon, Pakistan has a golden opportunity to return to winning ways and reaffirm their standing in world cricket.