Glenn Maxwell to take a break from cricket due to mental health issues

Australian all-rounder expected to miss Sri Lanka and Pakistan T20 Internationals

Glenn Maxwell, left, is expected to be away from the game for a few weeks. Getty Images

Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell will take a break from the game due to mental health issues, Cricket Australia (CA) announced.

Maxwell, 31, had a fine start to the Australian season as he hit 62 off just 28 balls against Sri Lanka in the first T20 in Adelaide and even executed a run-out from the boundary. In the second T20, Maxwell wasn't required to bat or bowl as the hosts took a 2-0 series winning lead.

Maxwell met with CA staff on Wednesday to discus his situation and is expected to miss the T20 Internationals against Sri Lanka on Friday and against Pakistan next week.

Team psychologist Michael Lloyd said Maxwell "has been experiencing some difficulties with regards to his mental health. As a result, he will spend a short time away from the game ... Glenn was proactive in identifying these issues and engaging with support staff."

Australia coach Justin Langer said he suspected Maxwell was struggling.

"There's been a few times over the last 12 months where I've probably suspected that he's been battling a little bit," Langer said. "The day before the game in Adelaide he didn't seem to have his normal zip and enthusiasm, although he still worked hard.

"People in public positions have to put on a mask and that's the mask he puts on. He's the great entertainer, but underneath the mask I could probably just sense he wasn't quite right."

D'Arcy Short has been chosen as his replacement.