Legendary pacer Wasim Akram expects middle-order batsman Babar Azam to be the star performer for Pakistan in the three-match Test series against England, starting from August 5 at Old Trafford, Manchester.

In an interview with iNews, the former cricketer said that Babar can prove his mettle against the pace duo of James Anderson and Stuart Broad.

“Pakistan has to be positive against England and not go into their shell and be defensive,” he said. ”It will be tough against the likes of James Anderson and Stuart Broad, who are both great bowlers and have over 1,000 Test wickets between them. But I expect that Babar Azam will be the main star for Pakistan and although there will be pressure on him. I think he can cope with the expectations and pressure and show the world why he is so highly rated.”

Akram emphasised the need for a strong start by openers if Pakistan are to put up competitive totals on the scoreboard.  

“The opening partnership for Pakistan is vital and both Shan Masood and Abid Ali need to show resilience and a lot of skill to see off the new ball,” he said.

“Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq are the two most experienced batsmen in the squad and a lot will depend upon them. I want these two batsmen to lead from the front and show responsibility as the younger batsmen will be looking to them for guidance,” he added.

While the 54-year-old termed England favourites for the series, he added that the Men in Green can challenge the hosts if they learn from the mistakes of Windies, who lost the recently-concluded three-match Test series against England after going 1-0 up.

“Pakistan are going to find it really tough against a very, very good and in-form England side,” he said.

“The home team will be confident on the back of consecutive wins against West Indies, but I believe that Pakistan can learn from the mistakes West Indies made."