2 Jan 2009

Hayden not looking past third Test

5:56 am on 2 January 2009

The embattled Australian opener Matthew Hayden is refusing to look beyond the third cricket Test against South Africa as he battles to extend his international cricket career.

The prolific left-hander heads into the SCG clash with the Proteas starting tomorrow desperately needing a big score following his lean trot in recent months if he's to hold his place in the side.

The 37-year-old says he hasn't even considered retiring from international cricket since the series-clinching second Test loss to the South Africans in Melbourne on Tuesday.

Hayden believes he still has a vital role to play on and off the field.

Asked whether he was looking ahead to the Ashes tour later this year, Hayden stressed his entire focus was on Sydney Test.