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Why Did Pakistan Drop Naseem Shah For The 2nd Test Against South Africa?

Jatin∙ Updated: Jan 3 2025, 2:09 PM

Naseem Shah was dropped by Shan Masood [Source: @thetopedge/x.com]Naseem Shah was dropped by Shan Masood [Source: @thetopedge/x.com]

Pakistan dropped Naseem Shah for the second Test against South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town. The announcement, made just 30 minutes before the toss, shocked the cricketing fraternity.

Left-arm quick, Mir Hamza has been brought in to replace Naseem in what can only be described as a ruthless move by skipper Shan Masood and the team management.

SA vs PAK 2nd Test: Why Did Pakistan Drop Naseem Shah?

Pakistan’s loss in the first Test at Centurion was tough to swallow. They had South Africa on the ropes at 99/8, chasing 148. But somehow, Rabada and Jansen pulled off a Houdini act, and Pakistan lost by two wickets. It was heartbreak for fans and players alike.

Naseem’s Off-Colour Show

Naseem Shah didn’t have the best time at Centurion. With the new ball in hand, much was expected of him. But in the first innings, he went for 92 runs in 22 overs, picking up just three wickets. The economy rate was a dismal 4.2.

In the second innings, when Abbas was tearing through South Africa’s lineup with six wickets, Naseem could only grab one scalp for 34 runs in nine overs.


Simply put, Naseem Shah couldn’t back up Abbas’s brilliance, and that hurt Pakistan. When the team needed him the most, he couldn’t rise to the occasion. For a team desperate to draw the series, they couldn’t afford another underwhelming performance in the Cape Town Test.

Meanwhile, Mir Hamza’s inclusion offers something different—variety and the ability to move the ball both ways. With a track at Newlands that promises some spice for pacers, Hamza could be the wildcard Pakistan needs. While dropping Naseem from Pakistan’s playing XI is a big call, bringing in Hamza shows that they are willing to mix things up to get results.

SA vs PAK 2nd Test: Is Dropping Naseem Shah the Right Call?

Only time will tell if this gamble pays off. Mir Hamza brings fresh energy to the attack, but dropping a bowler with Naseem’s calibre is always a risk. If Pakistan wins and levels the series, this decision will look like a masterstroke. If not, questions will fly.