LONDON: England batsman Jonathan Trott is taking a lengthy break from cricket for the second time in five months because of a stress-related illness.

Trott’s employer, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and his Warwickshire club announced the decision in a joint statement on Friday.

They said Trott suffered a relapse after the County Championship match against Sussex on Wednesday. In his second match for the club this season, he scored 37 and 26 but didn’t appear comfortable, and dropped a catch.

Stress-related symptoms forced him to return home during the Ashes tour of Australia last November.

“It was with the best intentions and hope that I returned to cricket with Warwickshire this month,” Trott said. “Much to my disappointment, since my first game, I have felt the same anxieties that occurred during my time in Australia.

“It is not fair on my team-mates or myself to continue when I am unable to function at 100 per cent. In order to play at the highest level you have to be at 100 per cent and be able to concentrate fully at all times. Sadly I am unable to do this.

“With this in mind, I have decided it is best for all involved that I continue my recovery on the sidelines for the time being. I would like to thank Warwickshire and the ECB for their continued support through this time.

“ECB chief medical officer Dr Nick Peirce said it will give Trott its full support.

“Having spent time with him yesterday it is clear that he will benefit from a further period away from the game,” Peirce said. “He will continue with the comprehensive support programme the ECB has put in place to assist his rehabilitation.”

Trott could still make a comeback at age 32. The No. 3 batsman has played 49 Tests and 68 One-day Internationals, and was world player of the year in 2011.