AB de Villiers criticizes Pakistan players after heavy England Test series losses
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 1:10 PM
Last updated Sep 7, 2026
Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has questioned the character and work ethic of the Pakistan cricket team following heavy defeats in the first two Tests against England at Headingley and Lord’s. Pakistan struggled significantly with the bat, failing to score 200 runs in any of their four innings during the opening matches of the tour. De Villiers attributed these performances to a lack of individual fight and accountability within the squad. Beyond player performance, he highlighted the negative impact of ongoing instability and leadership changes within the Pakistan Cricket Board, including the recent turnover of coaching staff. The team is currently preparing for the third and final Test match of the series in Birmingham. De Villiers expressed hope that improved leadership continuity and renewed commitment from players could help stabilize the team's form across all formats.
- •Pakistan suffered consecutive heavy losses in the first two Tests against England.
- •The batting unit failed to post a total of 200 runs across four innings.
- •AB de Villiers cited a lack of character and preparation as primary issues.
- •The Pakistan Cricket Board recently replaced Test coach Sarfaraz Ahmed with Mike Hesson.
- •The final Test match of the England tour is scheduled to take place in Birmingham.
- 1:10 PMYahoo Sports — 'Not enough guts': AB de Villiers questions Pakistan players’ hunger after England rout
"AB de Villiers, the former captain of South Africa, has expressed concerns about the character and determination of Pakistan's cricket players. He firmly believes that a lack of fight and hard work is hindering their success. Additionally, he pointed out the instability within the Pakistan Cricket Board due to constant changes in leadership, which he sees as a significant obstacle.
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