Australia’s wicket-keeper batsmen Tim Paine takes indefinite break from all forms of cricket for the foreseeable future.
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Tim Paine was named in Australia’s squad for Ashes, after he decided step down as the captain of the squad in the longest format of the game. Last Friday the 36-year-old stepped down after a sexting scandal was revealed with a female former colleague at Cricket Tasmania in 2017.
The player was still backed by Cricket Australia as he was named in the Ashes squad which is scheduled to start from December 8 at the Gabba.
Ahead of the scandal Paine was set to represent his state team Tasmania in a One Day Cup.
“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.
During these difficult times Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley extended his support towards Paine and his wife.
“We recognise 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,” Hockley said.
James Anderson who is Tim Paine’s manager expressed concerns over Tim Paine and his wife.
“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,” his manager tweeted.
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Josh Inglis or Alex Carey is likely to debut for Australia in the first test at the Gabba in Brisbane.
“We recognise 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.”
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