While providing security to host cricket matches amid COVID-19 pandemic, strict bio-bubbles can also take a lot of toll on the mental health of the players involved. Hence, it's extremely important for them to not hesitate in opening up if they feel fatigued at any moment of their stay, said England's limited-overs vice-captain, Jos Buttler.
England's all-format stars like Buttler have been living secluded from the rest of the world since July when the rejigged international summer began with Tests against West Indies. After also facing Ireland, Pakistan and Australia till early September, Buttler & co moved to UAE for IPL 2020 which only ended on November 10.
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However, the seemingly endless fixture-list now sees England tour South Africa for more white-ball matches, which is only one of the three tours that the three lions will have over the course of the winter, including visits to Sri Lanka and India.
“I found it was tougher to escape staying at hotels on the grounds in England," Buttler told reporters. “They were high-pressure matches and when you’ve put a lot into the game, it’s nice to get away."
"We won’t get to fully enjoy South Africa but everyone has become accustomed to what it’s going to be like. But if you’re feeling under pressure or not quite yourself, the key is to have the confidence to open up and talk about it."
"We all go through it at different stages where you feel a bit homesick or claustrophobic … We just want to make sure everyone in the squad is aware of that. The ECB is excellent at looking after the players’ mental well-being," he added.
Buttler echoed the sentiment shared by skipper Eoin Morgan, who had indicated that England players might opt out of some of the assignments in the coming months to look after their mental health.
England will face South Africa in a series beginning with the first of three T20Is on November 27 in Cape Town. The tour also comprises of three ICC Super League ODIs.
(Inputs from Reuters)
