Pakistan's new coach Geoff Lawson is confident his team can become the best in the world.

The Australian former fast bowler, who took charge of the senior team on Tuesday, said he saw a lot of talent, skill and enthusiasm among the players.

“They have all the required qualities to become the top side in the world. My main focus would be on improving their fitness and making them a more consistent side,” he told a news conference.

Lawson has been appointed on a two-year contract by Pakistan's cricket board and succeeded former England player Bob Woolmer, who died during the World Cup in March.

He is Pakistan's third foreign coach since 1999 after South African Richard Pybus and Woolmer.

Lawson said Pakistan had always been an unpredictable side, a trait that worked both ways.

He said unpredictability could be a big advantage if it was used positively and did not become a habit. Lawson has taken up his new post a day after four top players, former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq, senior batsman Mohammad Yousuf, all-rounder Abdul Razzaq and batsman Imran Farhat joined the Indian Cricket League.

“I am happy with the spirit I see in these players. My spirits are also not dampened because of the loss of some of the senior players,” said Lawson.

The Boards of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have threatened to ban players if they join the Indian Cricket League, which was launched in May.

Lawson joined the training camp set up for the Twenty20 World Cup on Tuesday and had a meeting with the players in which he told them about his future plans for them and his coaching methods.

Lawson has his first big test next month, when Pakistan lock horns with India in the Twenty20 World Championship. A little after that, he will accompany the Pakistan team on a full tour of India.