Pakistan captain praises Babar Azam's work ethic after return to form

Babar showed his full array of strokes as struck 68 off just 47 balls on a tricky pitch that sealed Pakistan's 2-1 series win in Lahore.

For Agha, it is Babar's desire to adapt and improve that stands out most in what he admires about the 31-year-old.

"You may all be fans of his batting, but I'm a fan of Babar's work ethic," Agha told reporters.

"The way he prepares, I have not seen anyone prepare as well as he does in international cricket. Whether he's performing or not, his preparation is always spot on.

"He knows he needs to bring new things into his game. That sweep shot, which you do not normally associate with him, got him a number of runs today.

"He understands this stuff because he's such a big player, and he recognises he needs to take things to the next level.

"I really hope we see this kind of Babar in future, because if he performs, we'll definitely win matches. That's a good sign for us."

Pakistan start a three-match ODI series against South Africa in Faisalabad on Tuesday.