Paine will have to go once Haddin returns: Nielsen

Mumbai:

The impressive batting form of Tim Paine notwithstanding, Australia coach Tim Nielsen has made it clear that the wicketkeeper will have to make way for Brad Haddin, once he recovers from injury.

"Haddin is the incumbent and the place belongs to him. Paine knows that he got into the squad just because Haddin was injured," Nielsen said here.

"We also cannot forget that Haddin was in great form with the bat before he was injured. Paine has done well in whatever opportunities he has received but unfortunately there is place for only one wicketkeeper in the squad," Nielsen added.

The 24-year-old has so far scored a century and two half-centuries for Australia in 13 one-dayers and has also opened the innings to play sheet anchor for his country.

However, the coach had some words of comfort for the young Tasmanian.

"Paine will have to wait for his chances like Haddin did when Gilly (Adam Gilchrist) was the wicketkeeper. What he has done with his good performance is that whenever there is a need for a wicketkeeper, he will be the first one to get an opportunity," Nielsen said.

Meanwhile, Paine insisted he was not thinking about the future and for now was looking forward to have a good series against India before Haddin returns to the squad next month.