Pakistan Batting Coach Sees No Concern in Babar Azam's Form

Pakistan batting coach Mike Smith has expressed no concern over the recent form of Babar Azam as the side prepares to face Sri Lanka in the tri-series final on Saturday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Wednesday.

Babar has failed to score a half-century in his four knocks at the tri-series so far, amassing 118 runs, but Smith believes the lack of a big score is not a cause for concern.

"It is definitely not a cause for concern," Smith said.

"The hardest part of batting in cricket is getting established at the crease, and Babar is doing that effortlessly."

Smith pointed to the fact that Pakistan was unbeaten in the tri-series heading into Tuesday's contest, and that Babar's solid starts are a positive sign.

"Had he converted one of those solid starts into a substantial century, this would not even be a topic of discussion," Smith said.

The Pakistan team suffered their first loss of the tri-series on Tuesday, falling to an eight-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in Lahore, with Babar top-scoring with 29 as the side was skittled for just 110.

Sri Lanka's pacer Dilshan Madushanka took a five-wicket haul in the match, causing problems for Pakistan with the new ball and later in the innings.

Smith said the defeat will have little impact on the tri-series final, and that it is expected that a setback would occur at some point in a tournament of this caliber.

"That defeat will have no bearing whatsoever on the final," Smith said.

"Ultimately, a final comes down to whichever team handles the pressure best on the day and executes under strain to lift the trophy."

Background

Pakistan and Sri Lanka have a long history of competition in international cricket, with both teams having experienced periods of success and struggle over the years.

The tri-series is an important tournament for both teams as they prepare for upcoming international competitions, including the ICC World Cup.