Australian captain Steve Smith on Friday hailed Pakistan batter Babar Azam as the “quality” player.
Addressing the press conference ahead of Australia’s opening Champions Trophy match against England, Smith said: “We have braced for the Champions Trophy with the great deal.”
“The event is a big opportunity for the young players to deliver,” said Smith.
“I believe Australia handle the pressure in the ICC events in a great way. We are very relaxed and preparing for the match,” he said.
“Hopefully, the spectators will make their way to the upgraded Gaddafi Stadium,” he said.
Smith acknowledged the hospitality of the people of Pakistan, saying, “The hospitality of Pakistan stands out as the people here are quite great.”
“We are having a great time since our landing to Pakistan,” he said.
He admitted that Australia were not having some of the big names in the squad.
Smith also hailed England as the “great” white-ball team.
Australia will lock horns against England tomorrow at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
