When Mohammad Abbas ran through South Africa’s batting lineup at SuperSport Park, cricket fans around the world couldn’t stop talking about his brilliance. With match figures of 7/133, including a jaw-dropping 6/54 in the second innings, Abbas reminded everyone of his class. But as the applause poured in, the spotlight also shifted to a lingering question: Why did it take three long years for him to return to the national team?
Amir’s Sharp Critique
Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir didn’t hold back. He took to ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration with the coaching staff that sidelined Abbas.
“Bring those coaches forward who dropped Abbas because of his pace,” Amir wrote. “It took Abbas three years to make a comeback—a slap in their faces.”
The tweet resonated with many fans who’ve long questioned the team’s selection policies. Abbas’ exclusion, despite his consistent performances in domestic and county cricket, baffled critics and supporters alike.
A Performance for the Ages
In the first Test against South Africa, Abbas was the standout performer for Pakistan. He set the tone early, dismissing Aiden Markram with a peach of a delivery. His spell on the final day dismantled South Africa’s middle order, sending David Bedingham and debutant Corbin Bosch back to the pavilion in consecutive deliveries.
By the time he finished his spell, South Africa were teetering at 99/8. While a late partnership from Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen snatched victory for the hosts, Abbas’ efforts had given Pakistan a fighting chance.
Read More: Mohammad Abbas Etches His Name In History Books
Shehzad Joins the Praise
Opening batter Ahmed Shehzad also lauded Abbas on X, acknowledging his incredible fight. “Pakistan lost the 1st Test despite a great fight from Mohammad Abbas,” he shared.
It’s hard to argue with Shehzad. Abbas wasn’t just Pakistan’s best bowler—he was their biggest hope in a tense contest.
Numbers That Speak Volumes
At 34, Mohammad Abbas remains a force to be reckoned with in Test cricket. His record—97 wickets in just 26 matches at an average of 22.73—places him among the best in the game. And in first-class cricket? A staggering 748 wickets underline his dominance in the longer format.
But the question remains: Why was someone with such talent and consistency kept out of the team?
Abbas’ performance is a reminder of what Pakistan missed during his absence. For years, the team’s selectors have been criticized for prioritizing raw pace over skill and precision. Abbas’ success—built on accuracy, control, and the ability to move the ball—proves that there’s more to fast bowling than sheer speed.
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