Lahore, Sep 9 (Agency) The legendary Australia batter Mathew Hayden has been named as Pakistan’s team mentor for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup for the second time, having previously guided them in the 2021 edition. “The decision is a continuation of Hayden’s involvement with the national men’s side after he inspired them to the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021, defeating India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia in the league matches,” Pakistan Cricket Board said in a statement on Friday. Hayden will join the team in Brisbane on October 15, the day Pakistan arrive from Christchurch after competing in the T20I series against Bangladesh and hosts New Zealand.
Matthew Hayden: “I am extremely excited to be reuniting with the Pakistan team as their mentor for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia and can’t wait to join the culture again and feel the spirit of One Nation One Passion.”I have seen how Pakistan have been performing in the ACC T20 Asia Cup and Sunday’s win over India was brilliant. “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…”Pakistan are scheduled to play two warm-up games – against England and Afghanistan – before their tournament opener against India on 23 October at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.