Hayden rested for two matches

Left-handed opening batsman Matthew Hayden will sit out of Australia's first two VB series matches, against West Indies and Pakistan at Melbourne and Hobart respectively.

Hayden, who didn't have a consistent year 2004 by his standards, has been given time off, as the selectors feel that he needs to recharge his batteries.

Hayden has scored only 504 runs in his last 9 Test matches at an average of 33.4, way below his career average.

Trevor Hohns, the chairman of selectors, said, "The selectors believe that this short lay-off should help Matthew as he prepares for the remainder of the VB Series and all other cricket that lies ahead. We can always recall him earlier if the situation is deemed necessary."

It is, however, unclear as to who will open the batting along with Adam Gilchrist in Hayden's absence.

Posted by Sudeep