[WATCH] PAK vs SA 2025: Ramiz Raja's shocking 'Drama Karega' comment on Babar Azam in Lahore Test goes viral

The opening day of the first Test between Pakistan and South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore was marked not only by Pakistan’s solid batting display but also by an unexpected controversy involving former Pakistan cricket commentator Ramiz Raja. During the afternoon session, Raja was caught making an off-microphone comment about Babar Azam that went viral. 

The incident occurred when Babar, batting on one, was adjudged caught behind off spinner Senuran Muthusamy in the 49th over. Confident that he hadn’t edged the ball, Babar immediately reviewed the decision. As the third umpire checked the footage, Raja was heard saying, “Yeh out hai, drama karega” (“He is out, he will just make drama”) to a fellow commentator. 

While the comment was not said on the mic, but the comment was audible on the background feed. The review later showed no edge, and the on-field decision was overturned, vindicating Babar. Raja’s comment drew backlash, with many fans calling it disrespectful toward one of Pakistan’s biggest cricketing icons. As of now, Ramiz Raja has not issued any apology or clarification.

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Pakistan batters dominate South Africa on opening day

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Pakistan batters dominate South Africa on opening day

Pakistan ended Day 1 on high

Meanwhile, Pakistan managed to end Day 1 in a strong position. After winning the toss and opting to bat, the hosts put on a 161-run partnership between Imam-ul-Haq (93) and captain Shan Masood (76). Both narrowly missed out on centuries but put he team in a strong position. However, their dismissals triggered a mini-collapse. 

Babar, who survived the early DRS scare, fell for 23 off 48 balls to Simon Harmer. The recovery came through Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha, who steadied the innings with an unbeaten 114-run stand. Rizwan ended the day on 62*, while Agha remained on 52*, guiding Pakistan to a respectable 313/5 at stumps. South Africa’s attack, led by Muthusamy (2/101) and Harmer (1/75), bowled 75 of the day’s 90 overs, extracting significant turn on a dry Lahore surface.