Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam has admitted that his team failed to perform in batting, bowling and fielding during the previous Test, saying the poor all-round performance affected the result.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Birmingham, Babar said criticism was inevitable if the team failed to perform and produce results.
“If we don’t play well and don’t get results, these things will happen,” he said.
Babar said Pakistan had selected its strongest possible playing XI according to the conditions at Lord’s, but the team could not produce the desired result. He added that there was no difficulty in deciding the playing XI for the next Test.
The captain also urged Pakistan’s new players to make the most of their opportunities.
“This is a golden opportunity for the new players to make a name for themselves and show their abilities,” Babar said, adding that players must perform consistently across all formats.
Babar also expressed confidence ahead of the Test at Edgbaston, saying the Birmingham ground had been a lucky venue for him in the past.
“We will try to perform well in this Test match,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched an inquiry into media reports concerning the discipline and conduct of members of the national team currently on tour in England.
The inquiry comes as Pakistan prepare for the next Test, with the team looking to bounce back after their disappointing performance in the previous match.
