The fastest man on the planet, Usain Bolt, has expressed a desire to visit Australia to meet his cricketing hero.

"One of my favourite cricketers in the world is from Australia. I am a huge fan of Matty Hayden," said Bolt, the winner of the 100 metre and 200 metre races at the Beijing Olympics with record timings.

"He’s a cool customer out in the middle and I like his style," Bolt was quoted as saying in the Herald Sun.

Hayden was stunned when told of Bolt’s praise.

"It’s pretty humbling for an old fisherman and surfer in Queensland who now and then plays a bit of cricket," Hayden said.

"To be mentioned is something I’m very proud about, and I can’t believe he even said that."