Matthew Hayden backs Babar Azam to do something ‘special’ in the knockout game against New Zealand

Pakistan mentor Matthew Hayden has backed his under-fire captain Babar Azam to produce “something very special” in the 20-20 World Cup knockout stages. Babar, the fourth-highest run-scorer in T20Is since the last World Cup, has struggled in the ongoing tournament, with a 33-ball 25 against Bangladesh being his best in the last five matches.

“…don’t be surprised whatsoever if you don’t see some fireworks because very special players don’t often stay down for long,” Hayden said during the pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday’s semifinal against New Zealand.

“There’s no question that Babar has been under some adversity. That will make him not only an even greater player…You can’t continue to keep on punching out hundreds and 50s and strike rates of 140-plus.

“There’s got to be moments in time where there’s a lull. And as we all know about the weather, once there’s a lull, there’s often a storm that follows. So look out, rest of the world, because I think you’re about to see something very special from Babar,” he added.

It has been a rollercoaster ride: Matthew Hayden

Pakistan was on the verge of elimination after losses to India and Zimbabwe, but the Netherlands’ shocking victory over South Africa opened the door, and they beat Bangladesh in their final Super 12 match to secure a semifinal spot.

“It has been a rollercoaster ride but I wouldn’t have it any other way, because the last World Cup we went into the semi-final undefeated, and Australia pipped us. So, yeah, there’s ups and downs in this tournament, but I really believe yet with our best game, which is a huge threat to our opposition.

“The way the middle order has stepped up to the plate has been excellent and those fast bowlers, man, there’s four of them and they come at great pace,” Hayden said.

Pakistan play their semi-final game against Kane Williamson’s New Zealand on the 9th of November. The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) will host the match.