Langer reacts after Maxwell takes break from cricket due to mental health issues 

Glenn Maxwell on Thursday took a short break from cricket due to mental health issues.

Glenn Maxwell | Getty

After taking a short break from cricket on Thursday (October 31) due to the mental health issues he is currently suffering, Australia's Glenn Maxwell earned praise from head coach Justin Langer, who lauded his ward's courage for coming out and publicly admitting his problems. 

Maxwell took part in the first two T20Is of the ongoing home series against Sri Lanka but Langer revealed, he could see signs that the cricketer wasn't in the best frame of mind for the last 12 months. 

"There's been a few times over the past 12 months where I've suspected he's probably battling a little bit but mainly in Adelaide, the day before the first game, he didn't seem to have his normal zip and enthusiasm," the coach told reporters after the worrying news broke. 

Read Also: Glenn Maxwell takes break from cricket to sort out "mental health difficulties"

"He's still trying hard, we saw how he fielded in Adelaide and again yesterday, but they often put on a mask. Being in public positions, you have to put on a mask. That's his armour, his energy, the way he plays, he's an entertainer. When you build relationships with people you sense it."

"He's struggling a bit and it took great courage from him to tell us he wasn't ok. A few little things weren't quite right. I asked him how he was going and he said 'I'm not going that well actually'. I'm pleased he feels he's got that trust in the environment to be able to do that," he added. 

Cricket Australia immediately sent down a media release stating Maxwell will be provided all the support he needs in this phase by the board. 

"The well-being of our players and staff is paramount," said CA's Executive General Manager of National Teams Ben Oliver Glenn. "Cricket Australia will work collaboratively with Cricket Victoria's support staff to ensure Glenn's well-being 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."

(Inputs from cricket.com.au)

 
 

By Kashish Chadha - 31 Oct, 2019

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