Babar Azam opens up about on-field clash with Mulder, focuses on Pakistan’s fightback

After a day of fluctuating fortunes, Pakistan batter Babar Azam addressed the media, shedding light on the team's mindset, the challenging conditions, and his own performance as they continued their fightback in the Test match.  

Reflecting on the team's approach, Babar emphasized that there was no significant shift in strategy between the first and second innings. "The mindset remained the same," he said. "The coach told us to stick to our game and focus on building partnerships. Unfortunately, we couldn't do that in the first innings, but Shan [Masood] and I managed to get a good start in the second innings. Hopefully, we can continue with the same momentum tomorrow."  

When asked about the pitch conditions, Babar acknowledged their unpredictability, especially compared to Johannesburg. "The conditions were a bit different than expected. The new ball posed challenges, but once you settle and build partnerships, it becomes easier. There were some patches on the pitch that offered turn and bounce, which made it tricky for both batsmen and spinners. For fast bowlers, if you're set, it’s about playing your normal game."  

Babar also addressed a heated moment on the field involving South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, who struck him with a throw. "It was just the heat of the moment," Babar said with a smile. "These things happen in cricket, and we move on."  

The Pakistan skipper was candid about his two dismissals, which left him visibly frustrated. In the first innings, he was caught behind down the leg side, a dismissal he described as "shocking." In the second innings, after building a promising partnership with Shan Masood, he was caught in the gully after chasing a wide delivery. "Both dismissals were disappointing," Babar admitted. "As a batsman, when you're set, you aim to play a bigger innings. I was upset because there were just 15 minutes left in the session. It’s a mistake, but you learn and move on. Next time, I’ll aim to stay more focused."