Sarah Taylor withdraws from Ashes T20Is

Sarah Taylor, England’s wicket-keeper, has withdrawn from the T20I-leg of the Ashes series against Australia beginning in Chelmsford on Friday (Friday 26). Taylor withdrew from the three-match series citing mental health-related issues that she has been dealing with for the last three years.



This is the second blow England have suffered going in to the T20I series, with Jenny Gunn being ruled out with a side strain on Thursday (June 25).



Taylor has had a tough time through the series, scoring six runs in three innings across the ODIs and one-off Test. She has, however, been a constant threat behind the stumps, pulling off a couple of brilliant dismissals through the series.



Taylor has been working with the ECB staff to manage her mental health issues, but has admitted that doesn't feel in a position to take part in the upcoming three matches.



"I first took a break from the game in 2016 but I don't want people to feel this is exactly the same,” Taylor said. "I've made progress in that time and there are plenty of challenges I've met on the way and hurdles I've overcome.”



"That said, mental health is not something you 'beat'. It’s a continual management process and at the moment I don't feel in a good enough place to compete in international sport. I wish the girls all the best across the T20I series. 8-8 is a very different score from 8-2 and I know they're all working incredibly hard to win these last three matches and draw the series.”



The wicket-keeper will be replaced in the squad by Fran Wilson. Amy Jones will take the gloves for the hosts.