Hayden hopes to build on record knock

ST JOHN'S: Matthew Hayden hopes his record-breaking century against South Africa is the perfect response to critics who doubted his place in the team.   

Hayden smashed a 66-ball ton, the fastest in World Cup history, to set up the crucial win against Graeme Smith's side in St Kitts.   

It was a win which also gave the defending champions an extra two points to carry forward into their Super Eights campaign which begins here on Tuesday against hosts West Indies.   

"I wasn't in the side about six months ago," said Hayden.   

"I'm just very grateful for the opportunity. I've really worked hard over the last year and a half to get my position back. It's a pretty tough side to crack, this Australian side, but once we're here, we really enjoy each others' company and we've had a great couple of weeks."   

Australia have been in fine form at the World Cup winning all three of their Group A matches, scoring over 300 every time they have gone into bat.   

Skipper Ricky Ponting is overjoyed to see his top order in fine form going into the second round.   

"We are playing very good cricket," said Ponting.   

"Our batting was terrific, Matty's knock up front was unbelievable, Adam Gilchrist got us off to a great start and Michael Clark was terrific as well so 377 was a good total on that wicket."