Pakistan, Sept. 11 -- Pakistan batting coach Michael Smith has backed the team's struggling batters to improve after a difficult start to their England tour. The visitors have failed to reach 200 in their first six innings during the Test series. Smith believes the main issue involves turning promising starts into long, productive innings.

Smith said several younger players are experiencing England conditions for the first time and facing important challenges. England's experienced bowling attack has tested Pakistan throughout the series with disciplined and consistent spells. However, the coach believes the players have shown enough quality to suggest better performances can follow.

The batting coach also defended senior players such a...