Great that mental health conversations are happening, states Steve Smith

With Cricket Australia’s (CA) support, star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and the lesser-known Nic Maddinson and Will Pucovski had recently announced their decision to take breaks from international cricket to deal with their mental issues. Smith is glad that the coaches and team psychologists are keen on making sure of the wellness of the players in the dressing room.

“It is a pretty hectic schedule nowadays. It’s bloody tough to sustain it for long periods of time, particularly I think for the fast bowlers. It’s extremely difficult what they put themselves through. It’s great that those conversations are happening and we’re trying to keep guys as mentally and physically fresh as they can be,” Smith was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.

“We fill out daily how we’re feeling, how we slept... the sleep gets a big red every now and again. The coach and psych (psychologist) and head of team performance look at our markers daily and it’s upon us to be honest in the way we go about that as well,” he continued.

”...if there’s a change in behaviour, if you’re feeling ill or not sleeping well or feeling a bit off, they’re aware of it. That can sort of start a conversation,” Smith said.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli also extended his support to Maxwell, lauding him for his admission and recalling the time he struggled with “end of the world” thoughts. Having endured a one-year ban himself, Smith was asked about the suspension of his former Caribbean Premier League teammate Nicholas Pooran for ball-tampering. 

“Everyone is different, every board is different, and the way they deal with certain issues. For me, I copped it on the chin... it is what it is. I know Nicholas, I’ve played a bit of cricket with him and he’s a talented player and someone with a bright future. I think he’ll learn from his mistake and move past it,” Smith added.