AB de Villiers Says Pakistan’s Pace Attack Has Lost Its Fear Factor
Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers noticed a dramatic shift in Pakistan’s bowling strategy and effectiveness when compared to previous periods, stressing the loss of express pace and the terrifying presence that had once defined Pakistan’s fast bowling corps.
The first Test between England and Pakistan began on August 19 at Headingley Stadium in Leeds, as part of the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam was pulled out of the match due to a hand injury, so Salman Agha took over the captaincy. Mohammad Abbas, Khurram Shahzad, and Mohammad Ali spearheaded Pakistan’s pace attack in the first Test of the three-match series.
AB de Villiers analysis of Pakistan’s bowling unit
AB de Villiers drew on his experience facing some of Pakistan’s best fast bowlers during his international career. He had met bowlers such as Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar, Waqar Younis, and Mohammad Asif, who had made Pakistan’s bowling reputation one of the most feared in global cricket. These bowlers had established a standard that the current generation appeared unable to meet.
During the match, England’s batting lineup met Pakistan’s bowling assault in the first innings. England’s top scorer was Harry Brook, who made 91 from 93 balls.
Ali Usman took his maiden Test five-wicket haul, finishing with 5 for 95, being the first visiting spinner to do so since Ashley Mallett in the 1972 Ashes. Despite Ali’s individual performance, questions about Pakistan’s speed attack’s overall impact persisted.
In the match, Pakistan were bowled out for 171 in their first innings, and England scored 409 in response, with four batters scoring half-centuries each to help the team to a higher total.
