Glenn Maxwell granted leave from cricket

Glenn Maxwell granted leave from cricket

on mental health grounds

Australian cricket star Glenn Maxwell has been granted indefinite leave from all cricket duties to look after his mental health.

The Victorian batsman has been removed from the Australian T20 squad with one game left to play against Sri Lanka ahead of a three-game series with Pakistan.

He played in Australia's victory over Sri Lanka on Wednesday night in Brisbane but will now take a break from the sport.

"Glenn Maxwell has been experiencing some difficulties with regards to his mental health," Cricket Australia team psychologist Dr Michael Lloyd said.

"As a result, he will spend a short time away from the game. Glenn was proactive in identifying these issues and engaging with support staff."

Maxwell, who has previously spoken about the toll cricket has taken on him mentally, has been replaced in the Australian T20 squad by D'Arcy Short.

CA supported Maxwell's decision and refused to put a specific timeline on his return.

"The wellbeing of our players and staff is paramount. Glenn has our full support," national teams chief Ben Oliver said.

"Cricket Australia will work collaboratively with Cricket Victoria's support staff to ensure Glenn's wellbeing 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.

Glenn Maxwell gets creative during his half-century against Sri Lanka on Sunday. Credit: AAP

“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."

Maxwell has fallen out of favour as a Test hopeful but remains a key part of Australia's white-ball teams, playing all 10 matches at the Cricket World Cup this year.

He hit 62 runs in Australia's T20 win over Sri Lanka on Sunday.. thanks 7 news