5 famous cricketers who opened up on their mental health struggles ft. Michael Clarke
As cricket continues to evolve, the mental health of players must remain a top priority, ensuring that they have the support and resources they need to thrive both on and off the field.
Cricket, loved worldwide and not just in cricket-crazy India, is one of the most physically and mentally demanding sports. While cricketers have long emphasized physical fitness, the psychological toll of international cricket often goes unnoticed. In recent years, however, several prominent players have courageously spoken about their challenges.
Several cricketers have shown remarkable courage in sharing their struggles. Their openness has not only helped to reduce the stigma but has also inspired countless individuals to prioritize their well-being.
By breaking down the barriers of silence, these cricketers have paved the way for a healthier and more supportive environment in the world of sport.
Here are five famous cricketers who have opened up about their struggles.
5 famous cricketers who opened up on their mental health struggles
#5 Michael Clarke
Former Australia captain and World Cup winner Michael Clarke recently revealed his struggles with mental health on the podcast Mental As Anyone. Clarke spoke candidly about experiencing profound sadness and a lack of motivation.
He shared:
“I have never been checked, I think it is a given... I’ve certainly been extremely sad, devastated, floored, can’t move for days, can’t get out of bed.”
Clarke admitted that he never sought professional help for his mental health issues, which he attributes to personal losses and intense periods of sadness.
#4 Glenn Maxwell
Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell took an indefinite break from the 2024 Indian Premier League season, citing his poor batting form and mental health challenges. This wasn’t Maxwell’s first hiatus; he had previously stepped away from competitive cricket in October 2019.
Maxwell opened up about his struggles in an interview with Cricket.com.au in March 2020, saying,
“It’s a game that I’ve loved since I can even remember... and to have so many negative thoughts was quite alarming.”
Maxwell’s decision to take breaks highlights the importance of addressing mental health openly and honestly.
#3 Virat Kohli
India's batting talisman, Virat Kohli, is often hailed as a modern-day great. However, even he has grappled with the immense pressure that comes with such a high-profile role.
In 2022, Kohli took a much-needed break from cricket, acknowledging that he was "faking his intensity" while feeling mentally drained. His honest admission about struggling to cope with the demands of the game sent shockwaves through the cricketing world.
Kohli's return to form following the break highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health.
#2 Ben Stokes
England's dynamic all-rounder, Ben Stokes, is renowned for his fearless approach to the game. But behind the bravado lies a man who has faced significant mental health challenges.
In 2021, Stokes took an indefinite break from cricket to focus on his well-being, revealing that he had experienced a series of panic attacks. His decision to prioritize his mental health sent a powerful message to athletes and fans alike.
Stokes' journey back to the top level, while continuing to manage his anxiety with medication, has been an inspiration to many.
#1 Sarah Taylor
Widely regarded as one of the most talented wicketkeepers, Sarah Taylor, a two-time World Cup winner, took a year off in 2016 to manage her anxiety. She eventually retired from international cricket in 2019 at the age of 30 due to similar reasons.
In an interview with Headstrong: An Innings With, Taylor shared her feelings of loneliness and anxiety, saying,
“I felt utterly lonely the last three years of my career... I avoided friendships, avoided people, avoided media, avoided expectation, tried to avoid cricket at times, avoided training.”