Hayden an inspiration, says Gilchrist

Australian vice-captain Adam Gilchrist has hailed Matthew Hayden's return to one-day cricket as inspirational.

During Tuesday's (Australian time) comprehensive seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka, the top-order duo equalled the record of 25 half-century stands in one-day internationals set by Australian predecessors David Boon and Geoff Marsh.

Hayden himself has been in outstanding form in the Caribbean with 477 runs at an average of 79.50 and only South Africa's Jacques Kallis has scored more runs in the tournament to date.

But the 35-year-old Queensland left-hander lost his place in the world champions one-day side after the 2005 tour of England and only regained his spot during the recent tri-series in Australia after all-rounder Shane Watson was injured.

Hayden then secured his place with an innings of 117 against New Zealand in Perth in January.

"I guess when he came back in, a lot of people would have been looking at it like it's make-or-break time," said Gilchrist.

"He identified that and I think he's said that was a bit of a breakthrough innings for him in regards to allowing him more time to express himself. He's taken it with both hands and inspired everyone to keep improving."

Productive partnership

Wicket-keeper Gilchrist said he felt proud to have batted alongside Hayden.

"It's been a wonderful partnership at the top of the order and statistically we're there or thereabouts so that's a huge thrill," he said.

Australia face fellow semi-finalists New Zealand in a Super Eights match at the Grenada National Stadium beginning on Friday night (Australian time).

The best stand posted by Black Caps makeshift opening duo Stephen Fleming and Peter Fulton in five games is 44 and they have not been alone among first-wicket pairs at the World Cup in struggling with Caribbean pitches.

"I guess walking out there together at the start of the order you have the opportunity to set up a strong foundation for your team," said Gilchrist.

"Fortunately we've been doing that well in this World Cup and obviously a number of times over the years so it's really pleasing.

"Matty is in a good place at the moment, he's hitting the ball so well it's allowing a me a bit more time to try to occupy the crease and settle in."