Glenn Maxwell Takes an Indefinte Break from Cricket to Deal with Mental Health Issues

Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has decided to take an indefinite break from cricket to deal with mental health issues, the news was confirmed by Cricket Australia. Maxwell, who recently scored a scintillating 62 off 28 deliveries against Sri Lanka in the first T20I in Adelaide, is all set to replace by D’Arcy Short for the third and final T20I match at the MCG on Friday. However, Australia have already won two games and taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series.

Dr. Michael Lloyd, the Cricket Australia Team Psychologist said: “Glenn Maxwell has been experiencing some difficulties with regards to his mental health. As a result, he will spend a short time away from the game. Glenn was proactive in identifying these issues and engaging with support staff.”

Ben Oliver, the Executive General Manager of National Teams said: “The wellbeing of our players and staff is paramount. Glenn has our full support. Cricket Australia will work collaboratively with Cricket Victoria’s support staff to ensure Glenn’s wellbeing and his reintegration into the game.”

”We ask that everyone gives Glenn and his family and friends space; and respects their privacy at this time. He’s a special player and an important part of the Australian cricket family. We hope to see him back in the team during the summer. It’s important we look after Glenn and all our players,” Oliver further added.

Glenn Maxwell, who is a vital cog for Australia in the limited-overs game, has played 61 T20Is so far where he has amassed 1576 runs which came at a strike rate of 160. Maxwell has also scored three tons and seven fifties for Australia in the shortest format of the game. He has played more than 100 ODIs and has nearly 3000 runs in his name. He has taken 50 ODI wickets and 26 T20I scalps as well.

However, Glenn Maxwell is not the first player who faced this issue. There are a couple of other players too. England’s wicketkeeper-batter Sarah Taylor is one of them. After having suffered an anxiety issue, she decided to announce her retirement last month.

Here is how Twitterati reacted after the decision of Glenn Maxwell: