T20 World Cup: Won't be surprised to see Zaman scoring big vs Australia in semis

Ahead of the Wednesday's semifinal match against Australia, Pakistan batting consultant Matthew Hayden has said one should't be surprised if their top-order batter Fakhar Zaman plays a special knock against the Aaron Finch-led side.

Zaman, who burst onto the scene with a match-winning 114 against India in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final, is the only batter who is yet to make a significant contribution with the bat for Pakistan in the ongoing mega event. He scored just 54 runs in four innings in the group stage.

"Fakhar has I think been the standout outfielder for our team, as well. He saves literally five to ten runs every game, and five to ten runs within a T20 concept and batting lineup, including his own runs maybe 20s and 30s here and there, means that overall, he's just been such an important part of the side. Don't be surprised if you see something incredibly special from him tomorrow, as well, because he is smashing the ball in the nets," said Hayden while replying to a question from IANS in the pre-match press conference.

"Already I think he's contributed nicely. Yet to star like some of the others, and that's the great benefit of having an in-form batting lineup. Bear in mind, unlike Test cricket, T20 cricket is just about impact. We've seen Asif come in and smash 24 runs against New Zealand to win you a game, and if you look at his overall stats, you'd go, is he impressive in this tournament or not? But that's not T20 cricket. Making an impact is significant, and Fakhar is certainly one of those that can do that tomorrow," added Hayden.

Pakistan topped their group table in the Super 12 round of the tournament and they are still unbeaten.