Gibson opens up on injury rehab

England’s Dani Gibson has revealed her rehabilitation journey during Mental Health Awareness Week.

The theme this year explores community with extra emphasis on the importance of having people around to support mental wellbeing, which is of particular importance whilst a player is recovering from injury.

During preparation for England A’s recent trip to Australia, Gibson was looking forward to playing her first ever red-ball match but then came the unexpected news of a stress fracture in her back.

You can watch the full video of Gibson in conversation with her physio, best friend Lauren Filer and mum, Gail below:

Admitting to a tearful phone call to her parents, Dani said: “I called them when they were in Dubai making it 3am their time, my parents have always been a big part of my support network.”

In conversation on the video, mum Gail said: “When you get the news it’s a tough call to take especially being in a different country but we just have to be there for you, say the right things and keep looking at the positives.

“We enjoy seeing more of you and we haven’t forgotten that you’re going through a really difficult time but we’re here 24 hours a day and we know you’ll battle through.”

Dani responds saying she enjoys having more family time when out injured: “One of the positives is being able to see family more, they’ve been very supportive and what I’ve needed, it makes me realise there’s more to life than cricket, I have a really good relationship with my niece who I don’t get to see a massive amount normally.”

The 24-year-old says that the support from her England teammates has also been part of her community whilst doing rehabilitation: “The England girls have been really supportive, I’ve grown quite close to Freya Kemp in the last couple of months who has also has back issues, she’s been great checking in, we meet up for a coffee and catch up. It’s also great having my best friend (Lauren) Filer 20 minutes away.”

In conversation with Dani, Filer suggests it’s helpful to have that support from friends and teammates: “When you’ve got someone else going through something similar it’s nice to have the support especially from your best friend. You’ve spoken about your struggles on your videos and I got upset but it I think that has really helped you.

“Sometimes you need to say it out loud to understand what’s going on and we need to have those conversations naturally which makes you understand your own thoughts more.”

Dani goes on to say it’s also really important to have a strong and understanding relationship with the physios involved in her rehabilitation: “I really get on with my physios, this is my fifth rehab with the S&C, I trust them that they know what is right for you, that they’re going to sort you out and talk openly about how you’re struggling.”

The Somerset all-rounder has just signed up for a strength and conditioning course recommended to her by two PCA Personal Development Managers: “Sophie (Connor) and Martin (Cropper) have been great and I’m excited to get going on the course.

“I feel so supported and I know who to turn to with what I need and I’m lucky to have so many options, I have a good community around me and it’s needed when you’re injured because it’s a lonely and miserable place, it helps get you through that rehab stage.

“You don’t feel like you belong, so I’m looking forward to getting out on the pitch and enjoying cricket again.”

Mental Health Awareness Week takes place between 12 and 18 May 2025.

For help and support reach out to your Personal Development Manager or call the PCA’s dedicated 24-hour Confidential Helpline on 07780 008 877.