Nic Maddinson pulls out of Australia A squad for mental health reasons

Western Australia's Cameron Bancroft will replace the 27-year-old in the squad for the day-night match at Perth Stadium

Victoria batsman Nic Maddinson has withdrawn from Australia A’s upcoming match against Pakistan in Perth over mental health concerns.

Western Australia’s Cameron Bancroft will replace the 27-year-old in the squad for the three-day, day-night match at Perth Stadium.

Cricket Australia's executive general manager of National Teams, Ben Oliver, stated: “The wellbeing of our players is always our primary concern. We are proud that our players are comfortable to speak honestly and openly about how they are feeling.

"We will provide Nic with all the support and care we can and wish him a full and speedy recovery. We also ask that Nic's privacy be respected at this time."

Maddinson’s decision follows that of Glenn Maxwell who revealed he is to take an indefinite break from cricket for mental health reasons.

New South Wales-born Maddinson previously took time away from the game in 2017 following a brief three-Test stint for his country.

Australia A coach Graeme Hick added: "Nic has made the right decision and we are all behind him," Hick was quoted in a statement. "It is braver to speak up than to suffer in silence and I applaud Nic for having the courage to put his health first.

"While saddened to see Nic stand down, we welcome Cam Bancroft to the Australia A XI. Cam is obviously no stranger to quality international bowling and the Perth Stadium wicket. We have no doubt he will fit well into the team."