Hayden back as mentor

THE Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rehired Australian batting great Matthew Hayden as team mentor for the ICC World T20 Cup in Australia.

Hayden had done a stint with the team during last year’s World T20 Cup in the United Arab Emirates, but saw Pakistan beaten by Australia in the semi-finals.

Ramiz Raja, the PCB chairman, said: “I welcome Matthew Hayden back in Pakistan colours.

“He is a proven performer with his credentials recognised world over. He brings with him wealth of knowledge about Australia conditions, and I am confident his involvement will significantly benefit our extremely talented cricketers for the World Cup and future tours Down Under.”

The PCB said Hayden will join the side in Brisbane on October 15, the day Pakistan arrive from Christchurch after competing in the T20I series also involving Bangladesh and hosts New Zealand.

“I am extremely excited to be reuniting with the Pakistan team and can’t wait to join the culture again and feel the spirit of One Nation One Passion,” Hayden was quoted as saying in a PCB release.

“I think this Pakistan side has got what it takes to excel in Australia. 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,” the Australian said.