Despite recently winning a series against Ireland with a 2-1 margin, Pakistan is currently trailing 1-0 in the ongoing series against England. Nevertheless, Hayden regards Babar Azam’s team as the dark horse for the World Cup.
Hayden places Pakistan’s bowling attack ahead of others. Mohammad Amir has come out of retirement, and Naseem Shah has returned after recovering from injury. Along with the in-form Shaheen Afridi, Hayden believes their pace attack will give Pakistan an edge in the World Cup.
On this matter, he said, “Pakistan is always the dark horse when it comes to the World Cup. Their pace bowling attack is formidable, with Shaheen Shah Afridi there. Naseem Shah couldn’t play in the last World Cup but has made a remarkable comeback. Along with Mohammad Amir and Haris Rauf in form, Pakistan’s bowling attack is very strong.”
Pakistan’s batting lineup is also among the best, especially with players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman who can crush any team on their day. However, Hayden believes fielding could be a concern for Pakistan in the World Cup.
He said, “Their top three batters are Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman. As always, their biggest worry is their fielding. I hope it doesn’t affect their performance this year. They are a very good team and one to watch in this T20 World Cup.”
