Lara was upbeat despite defeat to counterpart Inzamam-ul-Haq

Lara, who scored his 33rd Test century, said his side need to refocus on Tests after a rigorous Champions Trophy.

"There are still 10 days of Test cricket to be played and we are still optimistic of a series win," Lara said.

"We've had two months of one-dayers before this switch. It's tough but it's something we must do quickly."

West Indies made the finals of the limited-overs DLF Cup in Malaysia and the Champions Trophy in India, losing to Australia both times.

We have to have a professional outlook, show more determination and think about 15 sessions of Test cricket Brian Lara

But against Pakistan they suffered their 16th defeat in 23 Tests despite scores of 61 and 122 from Lara, who now trails Sachin Tendulkar by two in the all-time Test century standings.

Lara said West Indies were always under pressure after being bowled out for 206 on the first day.

"The first day we didn't show enough application when it was misty and overcast and there was a bit of juice in the track. After that it eased out," said Lara.

"But we can't make excuses because in Test cricket you can't expect to have things always to your liking. I enjoyed batting on it.

"We have to have a professional outlook, show more determination and think about 15 sessions of Test cricket. We can't allow the elements to get to us.

"Beating Pakistan at home is a tough proposition. But we have the bowlers to take 20 wickets, we just need to put enough runs on the board for them."

Pakistan skipper Inzamam-ul-Haq said his bowlers had performed well on a pitch which was good for batting.

"Umar Gul, Shahid Nazir and Danish Kaneria did well. To get them out for 200 runs on the first day was the best start we could have asked for in this game," he said.