October 13, 2025

A small moment caught on TV during the Pakistan vs South Africa Test match in Lahore sparked big excitement! When Shan Masood got a lucky drop off his bat, the TV cameras caught commentators Shaun Pollock and Bazid Khan chatting about a curious reaction from the crowd. While a catch drop usually brings cheers, the Pakistan fans groaned loudly. Why? Here’s the masaledar mystery explained! On the third ball of the 38th over, South African bowler Subrayen got an inside edge from Shan Masood. Tony de Zorzi at short leg dropped the catch. Normally, dropped catches mean spoiling the opposing team’s chance, but the crowd seemed upset. The replay was rolling, and Pollock asked Bazid, “Baz, they are Pakistan supporters. Why are they disappointed?” Bazid replied calmly, “I think you have not seen the scorecard. Who comes next?” Then Pollock’s eyes lit up, “Ah... Now I understand, it is like when Sachin used to bat.” This little exchange reveals the real deal. Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star batsman, bats at number four and usually walks in after the second wicket falls. The dropped catch of Shan Masood meant the second wicket partnership stretched longer and delayed Babar’s entrance. Fans wanted Babar early, and missing his arrival felt like missing the main star! Bazid’s question “Who’s coming next?” was the perfect clue. Shaun Pollock, who played against Sachin Tendulkar, knows well the crazy love the crowd had for the Indian legend. Back in the 90s and early 2000s, entire India held their breath waiting for Sachin’s turn at the crease. In fact, crowds often cheered the fall of wickets before Sachin came in, eager to see him bat! Great batsmen like Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara, who batted before Sachin, were surprised by this unique fan passion. This isn’t just about Sachin! Later legends like MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli enjoyed similar huge fan followings. Even in IPL 2023, Ravindra Jadeja shared how stadiums would root for his wicket just to see Dhoni bat. This shows the deep adoration cricket fans have for their heroes, especially in the subcontinent. Babar Azam has become a shining star for Pakistan cricket. Despite a few rough patches, fans still eagerly wait to see him bat, much like Sachin’s peak days. So in Lahore, when pitchers dropped Shan Masood’s catch delaying Babar’s arrival, the crowd showed how much they want their hero on the pitch! This lively cheering and groaning mix captures cricket’s magic, where fans live for the stars and their big moments. It’s not just a game; it’s passion, pride, and pure love for cricket legends like Babar Azam!

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Tags: Babar azam, Sachin tendulkar, Pakistan cricket, South africa test, Shaun pollock, Bazid khan,