Haddin mines Gilchrist for information

Brad Haddin is using his last weeks touring with Adam Gilchrist wisely as he prepares to take over the gloves full-time in March. While Gilchrist waves goodbye during the CB Series, Haddin has the opportunity to pick up more useful tips from Australia's world-record holder.

"It is good to have another wicketkeeper to talk shop with along the way, and to have Adam at the other end of the phone line - he has always been willing to give me advice," Haddin told AAP. "With a bit of luck, that won't change when he retires. I am hoping he will always be on the other end of the phone."

Haddin has played two games in the CB Series as a batsman, pushing his career tally to 28 appearances, and he is currently waiting to discover the venue of what will almost certainly be his first Test series. Next month's Pakistan tour is in doubt and if it is cancelled he will have to wait until the West Indies trip in May.

Despite the promotion being so close, Haddin said the situation had not altered his focus. "My position hasn't changed ... there's a position [in the team] at the end of the tour," he said. "You have to make sure you're consistent and your performance warrants the selectors having a look at you when the opportunity comes when Adam goes.

"I've been in this situation now for a long time. It's not something now I'm going to think too much about or it could detract from my performance."

Haddin, 30, first replaced Gilchrist in 2001 and has become his regular understudy since 2004. However, he is likely to spend his remaining playing time in the CB Series as a batsman and is in contention for a spot against Sri Lanka at the WACA on Friday.

"It is obviously something I am not used to ... and I would be lying if I said it is not uncomfortable," he said of his glove-free role. "But it has been enjoyable as well because I don't think many keepers have the opportunity to field in front of crowds like we had at the MCG.

"I have always been a wicketkeeper because I was a bit too short to be a fast bowler or anything else. I have enjoyed the time in the field but I tell you what, I can't wait to get the gloves back on. I will always be a wicketkeeper first."