Successful return for Yardy

Sussex captain and England all-rounder Michael Yardy made a successful return to competitive cricket after a month’s absence from the game following his early return from the ICC World Cup.

By The Newsroom

Published 5th May 2011, 13:21 BST

Yardy claimed 1-36 with the ball and scored 39 with the bat in Sussex Sharks’ five-wicket win over the Netherlands in the Clydesdale Bank 40 fixture at Hove on Monday.

Yardy, whose talent was forged with Battle and Hastings Priory, flew home early from the World Cup in India suffering with depression.

The former William Parker Sports College student said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the supporters, and all those who have sent personal messages for their support over the last month and to the media for giving me and those close to me the privacy we have needed.

“I now intend to spend some time concentrating on my cricket and would ask that people respect my decision to focus on my performances for Sussex and continue to give me the space I need.”

Yardy wasn’t included, however, in the Sussex side for the four-day LV County Championship match away to Hampshire which started on Wednesday.