Shane Watson vows to help players with 'mental health' issues

The Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) has announced former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson as its new President. Watson's appointment took place at the ACA Annual General Meeting on Monday night in Sydney. Former ACA President Greg Dyer will serve as the chairperson and Watson will be the new president of the players' body.

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Focus to be laid on Mental Health Issues

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As quoted by a news publication, Watson will place paramount importance on players' mental health. Watson, who is a very experienced member of the cricketing community, cited the issues that plague the mind of cricketers who represent their country for a long time. Watson also added that lack of breaks and a lack of people to talk to can also add to the unhealthy mental environment a player can unintentionally foster. Watson mentioned how Mental health is not just an issue that has to do with sports but also an issue that has to do with society in general.

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He said that one of the ACA's aims would be to render enough support to players so that they do not have to take a break from cricket because of being plagued with bad mental health. This statement was referring to all-rounder Glenn Maxwell who recently took a break from cricket and cited mental health issues as the reason for doing so. Another player is opener Nic Maddinson who has taken some time off the sport because of anxiety issues. In the past, all-rounder Moises Henriques has also talked about dealing with mental health issues.

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