LAHORE: Pakistan team’s former coach and legendary Australian batter Matthew Hayden made a return to the team management as a mentor for the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Thursday.
Following a temporary yet successful stint as the batting coach of the national men’s side in the previous T20 World Cup, held last year in UAE, PCB has once again put faith in Hayden’s mentorship to produce exceptional outcomes.
Under his guidance, the national team ended the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 on a high as they reached the semi-final after defeating India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia in the league matches.
Hayden will join the side in Brisbane on 15 October, the day Pakistan arrive from Christchurch after competing in the T20I series also involving Bangladesh and hosts New Zealand.
“I have seen how Pakistan have been performing in the ACC T20 Asia Cup and Sunday’s win over India was brilliant,” said Hayden on the occasion. “I think this Pakistan side has got what it takes to excel in Australia and the conditions will really suit them, both from a batting and bowling perspective. This team has all of its bases covered and I am sure it will light up the World Cup as it did in the UAE last year.”
“I feel privileged to be given an opportunity to pass on all my experience and knowledge about all conditions in Australia and can’t wait to be back in the Pakistan dressing room,” he added.
Meanwhile, Chairman PCB Ramiz Raja welcomed the legendary batter for his return to Pakistan and said that he was a proven performer with his credentials acknowledged and recognised world-over.
“He brings with him wealth of knowledge about Australia conditions and I am confident his involvement will significantly benefit our extremely talented cricketers for the World Cup and future tours,” he added.
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