With it being World Suicide Prevention Day I just wanted to put a message out there and bring it to the forefront of everybody's minds.
"English cricketers are almost twice as likely to commit suicide as the average male and have a suicide rate higher than players of any other sport, according to an international study." source -
https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2001/apr/22/sport.ameliahillWe have had some concerns with a particular member of my club this year (luckily he is getting through it now) and others just generally feeling down about the game particularly as we head to the end of the season and they start checking out averages etc. and it is also something I have seen throughout my years playing. Cricket (to me anyway) is one of those sports that can be so disheartening, whether it is putting in that hard work all week to go out and get a 'first baller' or coming so close in a game only to lose it on the oppositions last wicket. Due to it's stats and the focus it can put on the individual the game can be cruel, lonely and at times it can be the final straw for someone who is having a tough time off the field.
It might not be you, it might be a teammate or a member of the opposition but it is always worth checking if someone is okay.
I just wanted to put a little post out there to remind everyone that it is just a game and that there are much bigger things in life.
All the best,
A long time lurker.