Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Symonds told to seek psychological help





Embattled Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds has been urged to seek a psychologist's help as he deals with the uncertainty surrounding his international cricket career and a bitter fallout with teammates.

A disillusioned Symonds, whose commitment to the side was questioned after he missed a mandatory team meeting to go fishing, is certain to sit out of the upcoming tour of India in October.

The flamboyant all-rounder has also reportedly fallen out with his senior teammates, including one-time close pal Michael Clarke, who spoke out publicly against him.

"It is understood the strife-torn cricketer has been asked to go on a rehabilitation program, overseen by Cricket Australia medical staff, in which he would see counsellors about his state of mind," The 'Daily Telegraph' reported on Tuesday.

His teammates are reportedly feeling letdown by his actions after standing by him during the controversies that ranged from drunken brawls to frequent showdowns with opposition players.

"There is no time limit on these things," a source said.

"With an issue like this, it's important to ensure that duty of care and responsibility is used. Nobody wants to go any further unless they are comfortable things are where they need to be," he added.

All-rounder Cameron White said no one from the team has spoken to Symonds.

"I don't think the team really knows. Obviously no one's really spoken to Andrew over the last couple of days so only Andrew will know what his mental state is and he'll take the time and work it out for himself, I guess," White said.

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