Tim Paine has taken an indefinite mental health break from the game which means he is unavailable for the start of the Ashes. and increases the chances that he has played his last Test.

Tim Paine was due to play in Tasmania’s Marsh Cup game on Friday before joining the Australian team in Brisbane but withdrew on Friday morning following his return to play in a second XI against South Australia during the week.

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Tim Paine’s manager James Henderson tweeted

Tim Paine’s manager James Henderson tweeted: “Confirming that [Tim Paine] is stepping away from cricket for an indefinite mental health break.” “We are deeply concerned for his and Bonnie’s well-being and will not comment further at this time.”

A statement from Cricket Tasmania said: “Following discussions over the past 24 hours, Tim Paine has advised Cricket Tasmania that he will take 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 throughout the summer.”

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Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley said the organization would support Paine.

We recognize this is an incredibly difficult time for Tim Paine and his family and committe to supporting them. We respect and understand Tim’s decision to focus on the well-being of himself and his family at this time.”

Paine’s withdrawal means Test debut for Alex Carey likely at Gabba

Tim Paine’s withdrawal means there is a possibility of a Test debut for Alex Carey at the Gabba. However, he may face competition from Josh Inglis. “The national selection panel will meet in the coming days to discuss the final squad ahead of the first Ashes Test,” Hockley said.

In a joint statement by chairman Greg Dyer and chief executive Todd Greenberg, the Australian Cricketers’ Association said they “saddened” by the development.

“First and foremost, the thoughts of the players. And everyone at the ACA are with Tim and Bonnie,” the statement said. “Family and health are more important than any game of cricket. It takes genuine courage to recognize the need for help and to ask for it. Tim needs some time and space now and we support his decision.”

“Tim Paine made the decision to step down from captaincy in the best interests of the game. We now hope that Tim’s best interests will also be respect.”

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When Tim Paine resigned from captaincy a week ago. The Cricket Australia board said he available for selection as a player. And Tim Paine himself reiterated his desire to face England.

“I was not going to retire. I was very clear that I want to continue playing, and potentially end up after this Ashes series. He told the Herald Sun. “I see it as the ultimate high to be able to finish my Test career after winning the Ashes series in Australia. That’s the dream. That’s what I want to do. To represent my country and help win the Ashes.” for. .”

The ACA, who said in their opening statement that they did not think he should have resign, insisted he should be allow to continue playing.

Tim Paine has Played 35 Tests

Tim Paine played 35 Tests, but has played all four Tests since his return after a six-year hiatus. When he recalled for 2017-18. He stepped down as captain a few months later following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. He has lost two Test series at home against India but retained the Ashes in England during 2019.

Australia’s new Test captain could be confirm on Friday, with Pat Cummins the favorite to replace Tim Paine