Former Australia batter Matthew Hayden has stated that Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup appears strong with a star-studded lineup, but their fielding remains a significant weakness. Babar Azam will captain Pakistan in the tournament, which will take place in the USA and the West Indies starting on June 2.
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The runners-up have announced a formidable squad featuring four potent fast bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf.
Hayden Lavishes Praise on Pakistan Pace Attack
Hayden praised the fast-bowling unit, calling the quartet “amazing” talents.
“Looking at the Pakistan squad as usual Pakistan are always dark horses when comes to the World Cup. In particular, their fast bowling stocks are amazing. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, who wasn’t available for selection in the last World Cup -that’s a big comeback, and then you have got Mohammad Amir as well and Haris Rauf. You have four major (bowlers) from the pace attack,” Hayden said in a video posted by Star Sports on X.
The veteran cricketer also emphasized Pakistan’s batting strength, with key players such as Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman.
“You’ve got Shadab Khan through the middle for spinning and also a power-hitter and at the top you’ve got big three – captain Babar Azam, glad to see him back at the helm. He is the natural leader and should be there and you’ve got Mohammad Rizwan as well that more than likely will partner with him and Fakhar Zaman, who is dangerous left-hand striker of the ball,” he added.
Hayden On Pakistan’s Weakness
Hayden believes that Pakistan has a solid team but needs to improve their fielding to boost their chances in the upcoming tournament.
“So, all in all, generally speaking, their biggest chink is always going to be fielding. Their defensive efforts in the field have and hopefully, in this case, won’t diminish their performances. But they’re a solid team and a dangerous team and certainly a team to watch out for in this T20 World Cup across America and Barbados,” he further added.
Currently, Pakistan is engaged in a four-match T20I series against England. They will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against co-hosts USA in Texas on June 6, followed by a match against arch-rivals India in New York on June 9.
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