LAHORE: Former coach Matthew Hayden has expressed confidence in the Pakistan cricket team ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the United States and the West Indies next month.
In a recent interview with a local sports platform, Hayden highlighted the strength of the team and key players who can make a big impact when playing in major tournaments like the T20 World Cup.
“Pakistan is always a dark horse when it comes to the World Cup. Their speed stock is impressive with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah who were not selected in the last World Cup. This is a big comeback. With Mohammad Amir & Haris Rauf, the speed is very strong,” he said.
The former Australian opener praised the team’s batting line-up, citing the top order of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman.
However, Hayden said pitching remains a concern for the team.
“The big three are Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman. Their biggest hook will always be their fielding. I hope they reduce their performances this year. They are a solid team and a team to watch in the T20 World Cup 2024,” he said.
Notably, on May 24, Pakistan announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming mega-tournament.
Pakistan’s tour begins in Dallas, where they will host USA on June 6, India on June 9 and Canada on June 12 in New York. Their last league game is against Ireland on June 16 in Florida.
Hayden labels Pakistan as ‘Dark Horse’ for T20 World Cup
