Tim Paine takes an indefinite mental health break from cricket and resigned as Australia captain after getting involved in a scandal and is set to miss the Ashes series against England.
Australian former test captain Tim Paine has taken time out of the sports to focus on his mental health. Paine’s decision to take a mental health break comes a week after he stepped down from his role following a sexting scandal.
Tim was due to play for Tasmania in a domestic one-day match in Hobart on Friday in the lead-up to the first Ashes Test in Brisbane but withdrew from the match.
“Following discussions over the last 24 hours, Tim Paine has advised Cricket Tasmania that he will be taking a leave of absence from all forms of cricket for the foreseeable future. Cricket Tasmania will continue to support Tim and his family both professionally and personally over the summer,”
Cricket Tasmania said in a statement on Friday (November 26).
Pat Cummins is named a new Australian skipper after Tim Paine resigned while Steve Smith plays the role as vice-captain in the Ashes. With Paine taking a break from the cricket, one of Alex Carey and Josh Inglis make a debut at the Gabba on December 8.
“We recognize that this is an incredibly difficult time for Tim and his family and are committed to supporting them. We respect and understand Tim’s decision to have a break at this time to focus on his and his family’s well-being,”
Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia Chief Executive Officer, said.
“The National Selection Panel will meet in the coming days to discuss the final squad ahead of the first Ashes Test on December 8.”
Paine’s manager James Henderson said he was “extremely concerned” for Paine and his wife Bonnie.
“Confirming that (Paine) is stepping away from cricket for an indefinite mental health break. We are extremely concerned for his and Bonnie’s well-being and will be making no further comment at this time,”
Henderson tweeted.