Ex-Indian sports shrink says Trott's decision to quit Ashes 'an act of strength, not weakness'

A former sports psychologist has said he hopes that the critics of England batsman Jonathan Trott realise that it was an act of strength, not weakness, to make the decision that he has.

Sandy Gordon, who has served as the sports psychologist for the Australian, Indian and the Sri Lankan cricket teams, has expressed his disappointment over some of the negative coverage and commentary around Trott's decision to return to England due to a stress-related illness.

According to News.com.au, Gordon said that it took a good deal of courage for players like Trott and Marcus Trescothick to put their hand up and say that they are unable to cope, adding that people need to get over the 'macho' view that a person dealing with a psychological condition is less worthy than others.

Stating that Trott and Trescothick should be respected for their courage, Gordon also said that in many cases, the hardest thing is speaking up in the first place and so it should not be considered a weakness, adding that travel stress plays a big part in adding to the mental burdens of veteran players.

According to Gordon, the lifestyle of senior players becomes difficult for them to handle sometimes with the strain of travel, the constant scrutiny on performance and the extended periods away from home all taking their toll, adding there is an extra responsibility to maintain a high standard once it has been reached.

Gordon further said that the No.3 batting spot, where Trott was playing, carries with it a great deal of pressure and responsibility, adding that it requires a tough character to hold down that position, which is evident in Trott's record in his 49-Test career.