There are few more intimidating sights for an opening bowler than that of powerhouse Hayden preparing to bludgeon the opposition into submission.

Now established as one half of the best opening partnership at least since the days of Haynes and Greenidge, success did not come as easily to Hayden as some of his countrymen.

The Queenslander initially struggled at the highest level, making his debut in 1994 but not reaching 10 Tests until the new millennium.

But tough times against South Africa and West Indies did not discourage the hard-hitting left-hander whose technique was considered suspect, particularly for an opening batsman.

His coming of age was the three-match 2001 tour of India in which Hayden made two centuries including a 203 despite a rare series defeat for the Baggy Greens.

Initially partnering Michael Slater, it is the link-up with Justin Langer for which Hayden will now be remembered.

The pair have been a uniquely devastating over the last few years, not only scoring an enormous amount of runs but doing so at an unprecedented rate, laying the foundations for the imposing scores which have become this team's trademark.

Shortly after playing a starring role in the 2003 World Cup success, Hayden broke Brian Lara's Test record score with 380 against Zimbabwe though the West Indian regained the mantle soon afterwards.

However, he has made many more important innings and almost reached 1000 runs in the year even without that colossal Perth total.

A fearsome striker of the ball with natural athleticism to belie his size, England will not want to allow Hayden too many driving opportunities this summer.

But the purple patch - and possibly his peak - is now in the past and his 2001 Ashes record poor enough to offer the hosts some encouragement.