Sussex support for Yardy

The Sussex captain, whose talent was forged with Battle and Hastings Priory, has flown home from India ahead of England’s quarter-final against Sri Lanka on Saturday.

Sussex’s Professional Cricket Manager Mark Robinson said: “Sussex are very proud of Michael Yardy, pictured, and very supportive of his decision, not only to come home but also to be prepared to go public with the reasons.

“He’s always been a person admired for his utmost honesty and integrity, and his courage in dealing with this issue emphasises that. The club, its members and supporters wish him a speedy recovery.

“As captain and one of our leading players, we’ll give him all the time and all the support necessary so that he can continue to lead this club forward.”

One-time William Parker Sports College pupil Yardy, 30, has made 28 One-Day International appearances. He played in three matches during the current tournament, but sat out England’s last two games.

He said: “Leaving at this stage of a World Cup campaign was a very difficult decision to make, but I felt that it was the only sensible option for me and I wanted to be honest about the reason behind that decision.”