Pakistan coach Waqar Younis eager for batting improvement

Pakistan coach Waqar Younis wants to see improved batting from his team as they head into their opening one-day international against Zimbabwe.

The tourists in Zimbabwe claimed a 2-0 series win in the Twenty20s on the back of defending totals of 136 in both games.

Pakistan's bowlers stepped up to lead them to their series win, but Younis would be hoping the batsmen can deliver in the three-match ODI series.

Speaking after the 15-run win in the second T20, Younis said the batting had been a disappointment.

"To be honest, we're not very happy with the way we batted in these two games," he said.

"We're definitely capable of batting a lot better than this. We played poor cricket when you talk about the batting. Yes of course the bowling unit did cover it up, but not very happy with the batting.

"Our fielding was pretty good today. I thought the guys were up for it. They knew the runs were not enough and they really had to do something special in the field to defend that."

In a blow to Pakistan, fast-bowling all-rounder Anwar Ali was ruled out of the ODI series due to a groin injury.

The uncapped Aamer Yamin has replaced him in the squad.

The T20 series win continued Pakistan's dominance of Zimbabwe, and they hold an incredible record in the 50-over format.

In 51 matches, Pakistan have won 45 " with three losses, a tie and two no-results.

All three matches, including the opener on Thursday, will be played in Harare, the same venue as the T20s.

Zimbabwe will also be hoping for batting improvement after failing to chase down the totals of 136 in the shorter format.