Beating depression, Yardy returns to cricket

More than a month after quitting the the England team midway through the World Cup due to depression, all-rounder Michael Yardy returned to competitive cricket for his county side Sussex.

"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 the media for giving me and those close to me the privacy we have needed," Yardy was quoted as saying in newspapers here after leading the county against Holland in their Clydesdale Bank 40 Group A clash.

"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," he said.

Yardy had left England's team midway through the March-April World Cup in the sub-continent due to depression.

"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," he said.

Yardy pleaded for continued privacy as he makes a slow return to cricket.

"I would appreciate some privacy over the coming weeks while I spend time with family and close friends ahead of what I hope will be a successful season for Sussex," he said.