Tim Paine takes immediate break from all forms of cricket ahead of Ashes

Paine stepped down as captain last week after learning details of a historical investigation into a 'sexting' incident would be made public

Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine has decided to take an immediate break from all forms of cricket, Cricket Tasmania have confirmed. He relinquished the Australian captaincy last week as he learned details of a historical investigation into a 'sexting' incident involving a former female colleague would be made public. The wicketkeeper was expected to remain part of his country's side for the upcoming Ashes series against England, but this will no longer be the case. A statement from Cricket Tasmania explained that Paine has advised them he will be taking a break from the sport "for the foreseeable future". "Cricket Tasmania will continue to support Tim and his family both professionally and personally over the summer," the statement added. James Henderson, the cricketer's manager, said the 36-year-old would be taking a "mental health break". "We are extremely concerned for his and [wife] Bonnie's wellbeing and will be making no further comment at this time," his tweet read. https://twitter.com/jahenderson63/status/1464004967459483651 Paine fought back tears as he explained his decision to step down as captain in a press conference last week.  He had sent messages to a co-worker at Cricket Tasmania in 2017 which had led to a misconduct investigation. Although he said he was "exonerated", he decided to pass on the captaincy after discovering the text messages were set to be revealed to the public. Paine's position as captain in the Australia side was filled by fast bowler Pat Cummins earlier this week. Cummins had previously been vice-captain, but Steve Smith has now been promoted to that role. Related links:

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