Gilchrist rested after making 63 against Zimbabwe

Gilchrist, Waugh's vice-captain, made 63 off 76 balls, took a catch and stumped out two batsmen as Australia hit 291-6 in 50 overs and then dismissed Zimbabwe for 205 in 47.5 overs at Sydney Cricket Ground.

Brad Haddin, 23, from New South Wales state, replaces Gilchrist as wicketkeeper for Tuesday's match in Hobart, Tasmania, Waugh said.

"Adam's just having a rest. It was something that was planned a long time ago," Waugh told reporters.

"Obviously he plays every game -- he's got batting and keeping -- we just feel he needs a little bit of a break.

"It gives Brad Haddin the chance for one game and I think that's a good thing for Australian cricket."

Waugh, 35, described Haddin as a "cross between Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist" and said he was the natural successor to Gilchrist, 29, in the one-day game.

"He can play the shots that Adam Gilchrist plays and he's got that toughness about him that Ian Healy had. Potentially, he's an excellent player," said Waugh, who also captains New South Wales state.

Australia are unbeaten in six matches in the triangular series while West Indies have two wins and Zimbabwe one with three matches remaining in the preliminary rounds.

Gilchrist returns to the side for the February 4 match in Perth against Zimbabwe, the final game of the preliminary rounds.

Images from the match

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Mail Cricket Editor