Pakistan batting coach backs Babar Azam ahead of tri-series final against Sri Lanka

Pakistan batting coach Mike Smith has dismissed concerns over Babar Azam’s recent run of scores, expressing confidence that the former captain will soon produce a substantial innings as Pakistan prepare to face Sri Lanka in the tri-series final on Saturday.

Pakistan suffered their first defeat of the tournament on Tuesday, losing by eight wickets to Sri Lanka in Lahore after their batting line-up collapsed for just 110 runs. Babar was the leading scorer with 29, but his contribution could not prevent a disappointing performance against their Asian rivals.

The 31-year-old has accumulated 118 runs across four innings in the competition but has yet to register a half-century. Although he has managed to get starts consistently, he has been unable to convert them into substantial scores.

Why is Smith unconcerned about Babar’s form?

Despite Babar’s inability to reach a half-century, Smith believes the batter’s recent performances offer little reason for alarm, pointing to his ability to settle at the crease and strike the ball well.

"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.

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

"That is the nature of elite international sport—you cannot deliver a peak performance every single time.

"Those who truly understand the game can see how well he is striking the ball.

"We have zero doubt that a big score is imminent, and when it comes, it will be magnificent to watch."

Pakistan had remained unbeaten in the tri-series before Tuesday’s setback, and Smith believes Babar’s ability to get himself in demonstrates that a significant contribution could be just around the corner.

What went wrong for Pakistan against Sri Lanka?

Pakistan’s batting struggled against an inspired Sri Lankan bowling attack, with left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka emerging as the chief destroyer.

The fast bowler claimed five wickets, troubling the hosts with the new ball before returning later to dismantle the lower order. His outstanding performance restricted Pakistan to a modest total, leaving Sri Lanka with a straightforward chase.

The visitors subsequently reached their target with eight wickets in hand, securing a convincing victory and booking their place in the final against Pakistan.

Will the defeat affect Pakistan’s chances in the final?

Smith acknowledged that the heavy loss was not the ideal preparation for a title-deciding contest but insisted that the result would have no lasting impact on Saturday’s encounter.

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

"In a tri-series of this caliber against quality opposition, very few teams remain undefeated throughout.

"A setback at some point is expected. Losing the game leading into the final changes nothing.

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

Pakistan will now look to put the defeat behind them and deliver a stronger performance when they meet Sri Lanka with the tri-series trophy at stake.