The cricketing world was left stunned—and amused—during the opening day of the first Pakistan vs. South Africa Test in 2025 when legendary South African commentator Shaun Pollock made a jaw-dropping on-air gaffe. In a moment that instantly went viral, Pollock referred to Pakistan captain Shan Masood as the “captain of India” while describing the electric atmosphere in the stadium .
What Exactly Happened?
The incident occurred just before Babar Azam’s much-anticipated return to the crease following the Asia Cup 2025. As the crowd erupted in cheers for the former Pakistan skipper, Pollock—caught up in the moment—uttered the now-infamous line: “Shan Masood, captain of India” .
The error was so unexpected that it took a few seconds for viewers to process what they’d just heard. Within minutes, clips of the blunder flooded social media platforms, with fans from India, Pakistan, and beyond sharing the clip with a mix of laughter and disbelief .
Shan Masood’s Performance on the Field
Despite the commentary confusion, Masood was all business on the pitch. The left-handed opener played a composed and gritty innings, scoring a well-crafted 76 runs before being dismissed. His knock laid a solid foundation for Pakistan’s innings and showcased his growing confidence as the team’s new leader .
Why Did This Mistake Happen?
While no official explanation has been given by Pollock or the broadcast team, cricket analysts speculate that the high-energy environment—combined with the crowd’s anticipation for Babar Azam, a player often compared to Indian stars due to his elegant strokeplay—may have momentarily blurred commentary lines .
It’s worth noting that Pollock, a former South African captain and one of the most respected voices in cricket broadcasting, is not known for such errors. This rare slip only adds to the incident’s viral appeal.
Public Reaction: Memes, Mockery, and Good-Natured Fun
Cricket fans across the globe didn’t waste a second. Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit were flooded with memes:
- “Shan Masood applying for BCCI captaincy?”
- “When your leadership is so good, even rivals claim you!”
- “India’s new captain? Must be a secret strategy.”
Pakistani fans took it in stride, many joking that Masood’s calm demeanor and elegant batting style might’ve confused even seasoned commentators. Indian fans joined in the banter, with some playfully suggesting Masood “try out for Team India.”
Focus on the Real Captain: Shan Masood’s Leadership Journey
This incident, while humorous, shouldn’t overshadow Masood’s serious role as Pakistan’s Test captain. Appointed after a transitional phase in Pakistan cricket, Masood has been steadily earning respect for his tactical acumen and resilience under pressure .
His 76-run knock against a formidable South African bowling attack—featuring Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje—was a testament to his growing stature as both a batsman and a leader.
Table: Key Moments from Day 1 – PAK vs SA Test
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Commentary Blunder | Shaun Pollock calls Shan Masood “captain of India” |
| Shan Masood’s Innings | 76 runs off 142 balls, 9 fours |
| Babar Azam’s Return | Came to crease after Asia Cup 2025 break |
| Social Media Buzz | Clip went viral within 30 minutes of broadcast |
Conclusion: A Moment of Levity in High-Stakes Cricket
In the high-pressure arena of international Test cricket, moments like these offer a rare glimpse of human error—and shared humor—across rival fanbases. While Shaun Pollock’s slip-up will be remembered as a quirky footnote in cricket commentary history, it also highlights the global nature of the sport, where one voice can unintentionally unite fans in laughter.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Masood—not as India’s captain, but as Pakistan’s determined leader steering his side through a crucial home season.