Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has offered a strong assessment of Pakistan’s recent Test performances, questioning whether the players are showing enough determination and fighting spirit during the ongoing series against England.
Pakistan suffered heavy defeats in the first two Tests of the three-match series. The opening Test at Headingley ended inside three days, with England winning by an innings and 103 runs. Pakistan were dismissed for 171 and 135 in their two innings. The second Test at Lord’s also went England’s way, with the hosts winning by 194 runs. Pakistan therefore entered the final Test with an unassailable 2–0 series deficit.
The disappointing results prompted former South Africa batter AB de Villiers to question the approach of Pakistan’s players. Speaking on his YouTube channel, de Villiers said he had not seen enough players willing to put in the additional effort required, particularly among the batting group.
De Villiers argued that Test cricket often requires players to survive difficult periods rather than always attempting to play attractive cricket. In his assessment, Pakistan’s batting unit has struggled to show the resilience required when conditions become challenging.
He also emphasised the importance of character and determination. According to de Villiers, players need to accept that successful Test cricket can sometimes be uncomfortable and difficult to watch. He suggested that the ability to remain at the crease, absorb pressure and fight through difficult periods is an important part of succeeding at international level.
The former South African captain also discussed the wider problems surrounding Pakistan cricket. While he placed responsibility on the players, he acknowledged that instability within the Pakistan Cricket Board has contributed to the team’s struggles.
Pakistan cricket has experienced several changes in leadership, coaching and selection in recent years. De Villiers referred to the frequent changes and said that greater stability could help the players regain confidence and consistency. He also mentioned Babar Azam, who returned to the Test side after missing the opening match because of a hand injury. De Villiers expressed hope that Babar would receive an extended run and regain his best form.
The criticism comes at a difficult time for Pakistan cricket. Following the heavy defeats against England, the Pakistan Cricket Board made significant changes to the squad before the third Test. Seven players were sent home and younger replacements were brought into the group. Test coach Sarfaraz Ahmed was also replaced by white-ball coach Mike Hesson ahead of the final match in Birmingham.
The PCB's decision attracted criticism from several former Pakistan players and cricket figures. The changes were made midway through the Test series, creating further debate about the team's selection strategy and long-term planning. Former Pakistan captains and other cricket personalities questioned whether such major changes during a series could help the team recover.
De Villiers' comments therefore go beyond the team's administrative problems. His central argument is that the players also need to accept responsibility for their performances. In particular, he believes senior members of the squad should lead by example and help younger players understand what is required to compete successfully in Test cricket.
The former South African captain said Pakistan needs a group of experienced players who are willing to take responsibility during difficult moments. He suggested that four or five senior players could collectively provide leadership and demonstrate the level of commitment expected from the rest of the squad.
Pakistan's batting has been the biggest concern during the opening two Tests. The team failed to cross the 200-run mark in any of its four innings. That lack of consistency left the batting order under considerable pressure and contributed heavily to the two defeats.
The results also highlighted Pakistan's difficulty in dealing with England's bowling attack and the conditions in which the matches were played. The first Test ended rapidly, while the second Test only reached a fourth day because of interruptions caused by rain. England were able to maintain control for large periods of both matches.
Despite his criticism, de Villiers did not suggest that Pakistan lacks the ability to compete at international level. Instead, he expressed hope that the team can eventually return to the standard expected of it across all three formats.
The comments have added to the growing discussion surrounding Pakistan cricket. With the team already facing questions about selection, coaching and administration, the former South African captain has highlighted another aspect of the problem: the responsibility of individual players to respond to pressure.
The final Test of the England series therefore carries importance for Pakistan beyond the result. With several changes already made to the squad and coaching setup, the team will be looking to show a stronger response after two comprehensive defeats.
For now, de Villiers' comments remain his personal assessment of Pakistan's performances. His criticism focuses particularly on the batting unit's ability to show patience, courage and resilience in difficult situations. Whether the new-look Pakistan side can demonstrate those qualities in the final Test will be closely watched.
Pakistan's immediate challenge is to rebuild confidence and produce a competitive performance. For the players, the focus will be on turning the criticism into a response on the field. For the PCB, the larger challenge will be creating stability and a clear long-term plan that allows the national team to develop consistently across formats.