Babar Azam says Pakistan blending youth and experience for Sri Lanka Tests

Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam has defended the team's youthful squad ahead of the two-Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on Monday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. He spoke at a news conference in Rawalpindi on Sunday.

Babar said the team had taken a different approach. "We have taken a different step and brought in different players. We are trying to find the right combination of senior and junior players so that we can give youngsters the opportunity to express themselves and perform," he said.

He said the squad has many newcomers. "There are almost eight new players, and all of them are young talents. We have selected the team based on their performances in first-class cricket," Babar said. The Express Tribune reported that the team took this direction after its tour of England, and that Pakistan recently won an ODI tri-series.

Babar said his role as captain is to help young players settle in and perform as a unit. He said he would assign clear roles, use his bowlers effectively and help the younger players handle pressure.

Asked about selection, Babar said it is the job of the relevant authorities. He said he is responsible for getting the best performance from the 15 players given to him, and that he gives suggestions when his opinion is sought.

On Mohammad Yousuf, Babar said he has no direct contact with him and that Yousuf had contacted him on social media. He said he would welcome learning from Yousuf if contacted.

Babar also said his dismissals do not follow a recurring pattern and that he takes responsibility for his own mistakes. He said he tries to learn something every day and that there is always room for improvement. On results, he said: "The results are in God's hands."