Matthew Hayden has been confirmed as a team mentor for Pakistan at the upcoming 2021 T20 World Cup.
Saqlain Mushtaq, who is the current head coach of the national team, is joined in his staff by another Aussie in Shaun Tait, but Hayden will take up the role for the second T20 World Cup in a row.
Hayden, a former Australian opening batsman, held the role during the 2021 tournament in the United Arab Emirates, where Pakistan made the semi-finals.
Those conditions favoured the Babar Azam-captained outfit far more than Australian conditions are likely to, and Hayden's knowledge of the local venues, conditions and facilities will be undoubtedly a major boost to the Pakistani team.
Hayden said he couldn't wait to get back into the Pakistan camp ahead of the tournament, and suggested the nation could surprise.
“I am 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," Hayden said.
“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.
“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.”
The Pakistan Cricket Board have confirmed Hayden will join the team on the day they arrive in Australia, October 15, before integrating with the team again over their two warm-up games against England and Afghanistan in the days after their arrival down under.
