Tim Paine will take an indefinite leave of absence from all cricket “for the foreseeable future”, raising serious doubts about his availability for both the Ashes and his future in international play.
Less than two weeks before the start of Australia’s series defense against England, Paine’s manager announced that he would take a “mental health break” in the wake of the text message scandal that saw the veteran wicket-keeper batsman last as Australian Test captain. Inspired to stand up. Friday.
The news, which could mean that Paine is wearing baggy green for the last time, comes as Cricket Australia are set to announce a new captain, with Pat Cummins the expected pick and the widely expected deputation of Steve Smith.
“Confirming that @tdpaine36 is stepping away from cricket for an indefinite mental health hiatus,” Henderson posted on Twitter. “We are deeply concerned for his and Bonnie’s well being and will not comment further at this time.”
confirming that @tdpaine36 Going 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.
— james henderson (@jhenderson63) November 25, 2021
Paine clarified last week that he is available for Ashes selection, indicating a desire to end his Test career at home on the “final high” of an Australian series defense, which begins in Brisbane on 8 December .
He was called up and drawn to bat for Tasmania’s one-dayer against Western Australia on Friday, allowing him to play five days in a row after a low-key comeback through the state’s second XI. After neck surgery. in September.
But Cricket Tasmania confirmed on Friday that the 36-year-old would be pulling out of the game.
“Following discussions over the past 24 hours, Tim Paine has advised Cricket Tasmania to take a leave of absence from all forms of cricket for the foreseeable future,” Cricket Tasmania said in a statement.
“Tim’s decision makes him unavailable for selection for today’s Marsh One-Day Cup match against Western Australia. Charlie Wakim will replace him in the team. Cricket Tasmania will continue to support Tim and his family professionally and personally throughout the summer.”
Speculation about Penn’s place in the Australian Test team has been fueled since his resignation four years ago after he was investigated for sending obscene messages to a female Cricket Tasmania employee.
While he was acquitted of the 2018 investigation, he said last Friday he did not want the controversy to deviate during the Ashes. The news of his exit from the Test squad totally means that Alex Carey and Josh Inglis will be vying for their places behind the stumps.
Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting said that this week’s selection of Paine will be a distraction for the team.
But teammates were hopeful that he would remain on the team, with Nathan Lyon calling him “the best keeper in the world”.
“It’s very selfish – from a bowler’s point of view I want the best gloveman behind the stumps,” the offspinner said on Thursday. “Every bowler’s relationship with the keeper is extraordinary. Tim Paine is a very sweet and very respected man.
“I’m pretty sure I’m speaking on behalf of every bowler that we want the best keeper. He’s got my full support and I 100% guarantee he’ll have the full support of the Australian change room.