Haddin to replace Gilchrist for two games

Brad Haddin, the 26-year-old New South Wales wicketkeeper, will replace Adam Gilchrist behind the stumps for Australia in the VB Series matches at Adelaide (Jan 26) and Melbourne (Jan 29). Gilchrist will spend time at home in Perth during that period, and come back for the match against India at the WACA on February 1.

The decision to rest Gilchrist was taken by Trevor Hohns, chairman of the national selection panel, in conjunction with Michael Brown, Cricket Australia's general manager of cricket operations. Hohns said: "As selectors we believe this break will benefit Adam as he sets himself for the rest of the VB Series and the challenging period that lies ahead. Given the sheer intensity of his position, this break should present him with the chance to freshen up and take stock from the stresses and strains that are part and parcel with a wicketkeeper's job."

Haddin, currently representing New South Wales at Perth, has made just one appearance for the senior one-day side, against Zimbabwe at Perth in January 2001. He was also part of the squad that toured India later that year, donning the gloves for the match against the Board President's XI.

Commenting on Haddin's call-up, Hohns said: "Jimmy Maher has performed well as a fill-in for Adam Gilchrist on recent Australian tours, but on this occasion we have decided to go with a recognised wicketkeeper. Brad Haddin's allround game has improved immensely over the past 12 months, and we felt that he deserved this chance."