Team mentor Matthew Hayden has warned that Pakistan’s best is yet to come and struggling captain Babar Azam is set to be “very special” in their Twenty20 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand on Wednesday.
The 2009 champions only reached the knockouts when the Netherlands unexpectedly beat South Africa and then Pakistan beat Bangladesh to reach the last four in a row for the second time.
Former Australia opener Hayden, who was Pakistan’s batting coach in the last World Cup and was appointed team mentor for this edition, said he planned to make the most of his second chance.
“When the Netherlands beat South Africa it was a big moment for us, a really big moment for the team in general to reach its potential,” he said on the eve of the semi-final in Sydney.
“When Pakistan woke up to this result, a lot of prayers, 232 million people can’t go wrong, and as a result I think our group momentum has improved a lot.
“It’s been a rollercoaster… but I really believe we have yet to play our best game, which is a huge threat to the opposition.”
While Pakistan’s bowling has improved under Shaheen Shah Afridi, their batting has been fragile, a concern against New Zealand’s top-class attack led by Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Lockie Ferguson.
Azam’s form has been a particular concern as the opener managed just 39 runs in five matches.
Hayden, himself a devastating opener who played 103 Tests and 161 ODIs, said the captain needed some “fireworks” – and predicted he could turn up on Wednesday.
“There is no question that Babar has faced some difficulties but this will make him an even bigger player,” he said.
“We know with the weather that when it’s cold there are often storms, so look out the rest of the world because I think we’re going to see something special from Babar.”
New Zealand have long been a powerhouse in white-ball cricket, but have failed to translate that into world titles, including falling at the final hurdle against Australia in 2021.
They opened their campaign this year with an emphatic 89-run win over the defending champions in Sydney and Hayden said Pakistan were wary of the Black Caps.
He scored 200 on that particular wicket against Australia… New Zealand have really destructive players and can put you under pressure with the bat.
“They also have a great, balanced bowling attack.
“Like the New Zealand game in general, they really punch above their weight, they believe they can win this tournament and they have the ability to do it.
“Lots of threats to our camp, no question.”
