Day 2 of the second Test in between South Africa and Pakistan At Newlands, Cape Town, there was an unexpected turn of events when a South African commentator made disparaging remarks about the English-speaking abilities of Pakistani cricketers. The incident not only ignited controversy but also shifted the focus from action on the field to questions of respect and professionalism in cricket commentary.
The controversial moment came during the sixth over of Pakistan’s second innings Kamran Gulam defended a delivery Marco Jansen and said loudly to his partner, “Wait,” Babar Azam. The commentator took the opportunity to share an anecdote about playing alongside the Pakistani batsman Khurram Mansur in Abu Dhabi. He noted that Manzoor, like many other Pakistani players, made loud calls in English on the field but struggled to speak English fluently during post-match interviews. The comment was met with laughter that seemed to mock the Pakistani players’ language abilities.
We present the video:
A South African commentator mocks Pakistani players for their English speaking skills.
This is violence on live TV to say the least and should not be tolerated in any way.
Listen carefully@ICC @TheRealPCB #PakistanCricket #PAKvsSA #SAvsPAK #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/ptJc3zNlzP
— Cric Doctor (@CricDoctor_) January 4, 2025
The Magic of Marco Jansen: The Fall of Kamran Ghulam
On the next ball after the incident, Jansen picked the main wicket of Ghulam, Bowling from around the wicket, Jansen hit the ball sharply on a full length to the stumps. Unsure of his footing, Khurram settled into the crease and attempted a defensive shot. However, the ball went through the narrow gap between the bat and the pad and crashed spectacularly into the stumps. The combination of late movement and Jansen’s accuracy proved too difficult for Khurram. That dismissal highlighted Jansen’s ability to create awkward angles and exploit weaknesses in Pakistan’s batting. With Pakistan reduced to 18/3, Jansen’s double put the visitors in deep trouble.
Also READ: South Africa’s AB de Villiers 2024 ft Jasprit Bumrah’s Test XI
South Africa’s lead over Pakistan in the Cape Town Test
The second test between South Africa and Pakistan has seen a team performance from South Africa so far, declaring their first innings at 615 Ryan Rickelton’s Marathon 259 and from the decisive century Kyle Verreyne. South Africa’s innings was highlighted by partnerships that decimated the Pakistan bowling attack, which struggled in the absence of its top pacers. Cheers Prince and Muhammad Shahzad. Despite advances from Muhammad Abbas and Mr. SalmanPakistan failed to capitalize on early wickets and allowed the hosts to dictate terms.
In reply, Pakistan’s innings got off to a poor start as they lost Shan Massoud only 2 and Saud Shakil for a duck, but also dismissed by the flamboyant Kagiso Rabada. Jansen added to Pakistan’s woes by dismissing Ghulam early in the innings. As the 2nd day deteriorated, Pakistan were left in a precarious position Posted at 64/3, still 551 runs behindBabarla (31 not out) and Mohammad Rizvan (not 9) instructed to recover shots.
