The stunned Pakistan captain Younis Khan said the team's lack of Test cricket -- just three Tests in the last 18 months -- had proved costly. "I never thought we would lose this game because we needed only 97 runs today with eight wickets in hand," he said. "But Herath bowled so well and ensured we did not have any partnerships. "I am not making excuses, but many of our boys have not played Test cricket for a long time, some not at all. It takes time to get used to it. Younis, however, promised an improved showing in the remaining two Tests.