Glenn Maxwell takes indefinite break from cricket due to mental health concerns

Cricket Australia revealed on Thursday that the allrounder has withdrawn from the squad for the ongoing T20 international series against Sri Lanka, with D'Arcy Short being called up in his place

Glenn Maxwell is to take an indefinite break from cricket for mental health reasons. 

Cricket Australia revealed on Thursday that the allrounder has withdrawn from the squad for the ongoing T20 international series against Sri Lanka, with D'Arcy Short being called up in his place.

Maxwell had played in the first two games of the campaign but raised concerns about his mental health with Australia's support team. His decision to step away from the sport is backed by both the national side and his state team, Victoria.

Ben Oliver, the head of Australia's national teams, said: "The well-being of our players and staff is paramount."

"Glenn has our full support. 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."

^{Glenn Maxwell is taking an indefinite break from cricket}

"Glenn Maxwell has been experiencing some difficulties with regards to his mental health," said team psychologist Dr Michael Lloyd.

"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."

Head coach Justin Langer said he had spoken to Maxwell about his mental health in the build-up to the first game against Sri Lanka, at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday, after noticing that "something wasn't quite right".

"Even though in Adelaide he had that incredible innings and fielded like a genius like he can, I don’t think he got much joy out of it, to be honest," Langer said.

"They (those suffering from mental health problems) often put on a mask."

"In public positions they have to put on a mask all the time. That’s his armour, his energy and the way he plays."