Melbourne (Australia) | Jagran Sports Desk: Star Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell on Thursday announced that he has decided to take a ‘short break’ from cricket to deal with his mental health issues.
The 31-year-old all rounder told the team's support staff that he was struggling with his mental health and the Board, along with his state side Victoria, are backing him in this period, said Cricket Australia in a statement.
"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," Team psychologist Dr. Michael Lloyd was quoted as saying by Cricket Australia on its website 'cricket.com.au'.
"Glenn was proactive in identifying these issues and engaging with support staff," Lloyd added.
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His decision comes days after the all-rounder smashed 62 off 28 balls to help Australia won by 134-runs in the opening T-20 game against Sri Lanka. He did not get to bat in the second match which the hosts won by nine wickets to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
"The well-being 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 well-being and his reintegration into the game," CA's Executive General Manager of National Teams Ben Oliver said.
He further requested that Maxwell, his family and friends' privacy should be respected.
"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," he said.
Maxwell has played 110 ODIs, 61 T20s and seven Tests for Australia. He has scored three hundreds in T20 internationals and one each in Tests and ODIs.
(With PTI inputs)