‘Under Haydos, Pakistan are a better unit’ - Australia greats lavish praise on former teammate Matthew Hayden

Pakistan are on the cusp of clinching the coveted T20 World Cup title for the second time in history but face one final challenge in the form of England in the summit clash of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday, November 13.

When nothing seemed to be working Pakistan’s way in their campaign initially, luck tilted towards their end as the Netherlands shocked South Africa in their final Super 12 fixture and opened the doors for a semi-final berth for Pakistan.

Undoubtedly, Pakistan mentor Matthew Hayden has played a vital role for the side whether it is ideating plans for the unit on the field or boosting their morale off the field. Australia greats and Hayden's former teammates – Brett Lee and Adam Gilchrist too feel that Hayden’s influence has brought about a positive approach in the Pakistan camp and that has reflected well on the field.

“It doesn’t surprise me that, under the guidance of Haydos (Matthew Hayden), Pakistan are a better unit. He’s always been that way. He’s always been a leader. He’s always been a person that speaks from the heart and a person that will call it out if it’s not right. And I like that about Haydos. There’s so much transparency. He doesn’t beat around the bush,” said Lee to foxsports.com.au.

He has pride and passion for any role he takes on: Adam Gilchrist

Adam Gilchrist and Hayden made a fearsome duo at the top of Australia's batting order back in the day. Gilchrist, who has spent a significant amount of time with the player opined that Hayden has ‘pride and passion’ for any role he takes on.

“I would say his passion and his unconditional commitment to the role, which has been obvious for everyone to see. Those little snippets show just how much he invests himself into any commitment that he has, any relationship that he has,” told Gilchrist to foxsports.com.au.

“On evidence, my son and I were going through the airport after the Adelaide games and the Pakistan team were in transit and they were all just hanging around Haydos. I think that just summed it up. The pride and the passion he has in any role he takes on,” concluded the former World Cup winner.