Out-of-form Hayden rested for two ODIs

The Aussie selectors believe a short lay-off should help Hayden as he prepares for rest of the tri-series against West Indies and Pakistan.

Struggling opening batsman Matthew Hayden will be rested for Australia's first two matches in the triangular one-day cricket series against the West Indies and Pakistan, selectors said on Tuesday.

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The decision was made by the selectors in conjunction with Australian team management and Cricket Australia (CA) general manager of cricket operations, Michael Brown, a CA statement 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," said chairman of selectors Trevor Hohns.

"The 14-man squad will give us the flexibility to give players who have taken part in both forms of the game over the past few months a break from time to time, and in Matthew's case we can always recall him earlier if the situation is deemed necessary.

"We will nominate other players for a break throughout the series."

Hayden has looked jaded in this summer's home Test series against New Zealand and Pakistan.

The triangular one-day series begins on Friday when Australia play West Indies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia take on Pakistan in Hobart on January 16.