Press Statement Issued On Behalf Of The England And Wales Cricket Board Re Marcus Trescothick – 06/09/2006 For immediate release Weds Sept 6, 8am Following specialist medical advice received by the England selectors, opening batsman Marcus Trescothick will not be named in the 14-man squad for October’s ICC Champions Trophy in India. The selectors have been pleased to learn that the treatment Marcus has been receiving throughout the summer has resulted in very positive progress and that he is expected to be fit to resume playing for England prior to the Ashes Tour. A spokesman from Performance Healthcare, the specialists treating Trescothick, said: ” After his return from the tour of India in March, Marcus sought specialist help for his ongoing symptoms. In addition to the deleterious effects of the acquired gastrointestinal infection on his health, it later became evident that he was also suffering from an underlying stress-related illness. ” He has been receiving specialist treatment, which has allowed him to resume his position in the England team. However, we believe that it would be premature for him to tour India in October. Rest is an important part of his treatment and he will need recovery time before the Ashes tour of Australia which begins in November. ” Marcus has made significant progress, witnessed by the fact that he is now at a stage where he has openly accepted the full extent of the illness which he suffered. The medical regime put in place to support him has enabled him to play a full part in this summer’s international programme, however being overseas for the Champions Trophy would interrupt the current treatment.” Chairman of selectors, David Graveney, said: ” It is a blow that Marcus will not be available for the ICC Champions Trophy but we are delighted that he will be available for selection for the tour of Australia which follows. ” Marcus needs to take some time out to continue his excellent recovery as advised by his specialists. ” The England and Wales Cricket Board wishes to express its gratitude to Somerset County Cricket Club, Professional Cricketers’ Association and International Sports Management for the support that they have provided for Marcus.” Marcus Trescothick added: ” I am grateful for all the support and understanding which has been shown to me and my family during the period of treatment which I have undertaken since my return from India. ” I was keen to take part in the ICC Champions Trophy but I do appreciate that my specialist’s advice is that I must first continue the treatment devised for me. ” Having come to terms with the full extent of my illness last winter, I recognise that I am now well on course to make a full recovery and I am determined to play a full part in the Ashes tour.” The England and Wales Cricket Board will be making no further comment.
