Trott’s stress-related illness re-emerges

England batsman Jonathan Trott is taking a lengthy break from cricket for the second time in five months because of a stress-related illness.

The England and Wales Cricket Board, and his Warwickshire club announced the decision in a joint statement saying that Trott suffered a relapse after the County Championship match against Sussex on Wednesday. In his second match for the club this season, he scored 37 and 26 but did not appear comfortable, and dropped a catch.

Stress-related symptoms forced him to return home during the Ashes tour of Australia in November.

“It was with the best intentions and hope that I returned to cricket with Warwickshire this month,” Trott said in the statement.

“Much to my disappointment, since my first game, I have felt the same anxieties that occurred during my time in Australia. It is not fair on my teammates or myself to continue when I am unable to function at 100 percent. In order to play at the highest level you have to be at 100 percent and be able to concentrate fully at all times. Sadly I am unable to do this.

“With this in mind, I have decided it is best for all involved that I continue my recovery on the sidelines for the time being.”

Trott could still make a comeback at age 32. He has played 49 Tests and 68 One-Day Internationals, and was world player of the year in 2011.