Cricket Australia Statement Regarding Shaun Tait

Cricket Australia today confirmed that Australia and South Australia fast bowler Shaun Tait is suffering from physical and emotional exhaustion and will be rested from cricket while he undergoes a program designed to facilitate his return to cricket at a time to be determined by such a program.

Cricket Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Trefor James, said: “After discussions with Shaun and the South Australian Cricket Association medical staff it is clear that Shaun needs a break from cricket at all levels. We’ll be working with Shaun going forward to ensure that whatever assistance he requires is provided to him. Shaun’s personal welfare is our primary concern as well as his return to cricket at an appropriate point.“

Terry Farquharson, South Australian Cricket Association Medical Officer, said: “Shaun has experienced recurrent injuries dating back to 2005 with a shoulder injury requiring surgery, an elbow injury in 2007 also requiring surgery, which has caused him ongoing pain as well as suffering intermittent low back and hamstring injuries. The combination of his injury history and the demands of being an elite professional cricketer has affected his physical, and significantly, his emotional well being. Shaun feels he needs a rest from cricket and I support this, which will allow him to recover both physically and emotionally.”

Shaun Tait said: “This is a very difficult situation for me to be in at this time, this is not an overnight decision but something that I’ve been struggling with for sometime. A break from professional cricket will hopefully give me a clear mind and a chance for my body to rest and recover. My love and enjoyment of the game is struggling due to these issues and if I continue to go on it will be unfair on my team mates and support staff of both the Australian and South Australian cricket teams - and most importantly my family and close friends. If my privacy can be respected until I’ve worked through my current situation that would be much appreciated. The continued success of the Australian cricket team is important to me and I wish my team mates every success in the coming Twenty20 game and the Commonwealth Bank Series.”

Acting Chief Executive Michael Brown said: “Cricket Australia and the SACA would be grateful if, during the ongoing medical program, Shaun’s privacy is respected by the media, so Shaun can return to cricket at an appropriate time.”