Is there a benefit to delaying pension contributions?

This might sound like a stupid question to some since contributions gain interest from the moment they are paid in, but I'm just curious if there is an angle I haven't considered. I know nothing about this kind of thing so be nice!

If someone opts out of their pension, then pays the same amount they would have paid but at a later date, are there possible tax benefits to doing this?

Or is it the case that the only way this could benefit you is if you thought you could invest those withheld contributions, make a greater return, then pay that money into your pension? What kind of return would you even need for that to be beneficial? (No, I'm not thinking I can beat the market - it's an academic question!)