Great that there's talk about mental health, says Smith

Brisbane : Premier Australian batsman Steve Smith is glad that mental health of cricketers is in focus after some of his compatriots took breaks to deal with their issues, which he feels, are compounded by "hectic" playing schedules.

Star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and the lesser known Nic Maddinson and Will Pucovski announced breaks from international cricket to deal with their mental issues and got support from Cricket Australia.

"It is a pretty hectic schedule nowadays," Smith was quoted as saying by 'ESPNCricinfo'. "It's bloody tough to sustain it for long periods of time, particularly I think for the fast bowlers.

It's extremely difficult what they put themselves through. It's great that those conversations are happening and we're trying to keep guys as mentally and physically fresh as they can be," he said.

England player Moeen Ali has come out in support of Glenn Maxwell following the all-rounder's withdrawal from Australia's recent series against Sri Lanka for mental-health reasons.

Moeen himself had taken a break from international cricket following England's maiden title win in 50-over World Cup.

He made himself unavailable for the ongoing New Zealand tour and also the South Africa series after that.