It has been a shocking two weeks for cricket followers across the world and especially in Australia. After relinquishing the Australia captaincy ahead of the Ashes, former skipper Tim Paine has now announced that he has no ambition of playing any form of cricket in near future.
Cricket Tasmania, the state that Paine represents in domestic cricket announced on his behalf that he has withdrawn from Tasmania’s Marsh Cup game against Western Australia and has also asked selectors not to consider him for foreseeable future.
“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.
Tim’s decision makes him unavailable for selection for today’s Marsh One-Day Cup match against Western Australia. His place in the squad will be taken by Charlie Wakim,” Cricket Tasmania said in a statement at the same time committing to support the state legend in any which way possible.
Although after his resignation over the derogatory texting scandal with a colleague, Cricket Australia’s current management hadn’t been kind to its former captain, but now after his indefinite break announcement, Nick Hockley, the CEO has promised full support to Paine.
"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,” he said.