‘Need to improve in the shortest format’- Babar Azam reacts after T20I series loss to England

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam showed terrific form in the seven-match T20I series against England at home as the batter scored 285 runs in his seven outings.

The captain highlighted that the T20I series against England was vital to pay heed to the flaws within the squad. England successfully completed the tour to Pakistan as they clinched the series 4-3 in Lahore on Sunday, October 2.

The series was neck-to-neck as both teams were 3-3 prior to the final T20I match. Although both were hungry to win the series, Moeen Ali's England emerged victorious in the series-decider.

Babar Azam reacts to series loss

The right-hander highlighted that the team will need to improve in the shortest format to compete for titles. Quite concerned following the loss to England in the series-decider, the Pakistan skipper expressed that there is a lot for the side to work on.

"With 200 runs on the board, if we lose early wickets, it puts pressure on the other batters. This series was vital for us. We need to improve in the shortest format. I also mentioned at the toss, that we have a good bowling attack. Haris is bowling well, and he is improving everyday. I think entire Pakistan was waiting for this, even we were happy to host England,” Babar said in the post-match presentation.

Pakistan are placed in a tricky group that has arch-rivals India, South Africa, Bangladesh and two teams that will qualify from the first stage qualifiers. Pakistan have players who can dominate the game and give other teams a run for their money.

However, the skipper also has an understanding of the flaws and will hope the team strikes balance just in time for the mega event down under. The middle-order seems to be the major concern for Pakistan as it has failed badly time and again and continues to give a lot of headaches to the Pakistan management. Pakistan will take on India in their T20 World Cup opener on October 23.