Alec Stewart, one of England’s greatest cricketing legends, has announced that he will be taking a break from his role as Surrey chief to look after his wife as she battles cancer.
The former England captain, who played 133 Tests and 170 One Day Internationals for his country, has been a stalwart of the Surrey County Cricket Club since his retirement from international cricket in 2003.
Stewart, who is now the club’s Director of Cricket, has been a key figure in the club’s success over the past decade, helping to guide them to three County Championship titles and two One Day Cup titles.
However, Stewart has now decided to take a break from his role at the club to focus on his wife, Sarah, who is currently undergoing treatment for cancer.
In a statement released by the club, Stewart said: “I have decided to take a break from my role at Surrey to focus on my wife Sarah, who is currently undergoing treatment for cancer.
“I am immensely proud of the success we have achieved at Surrey over the past decade and I am confident that the club will continue to go from strength to strength in my absence.
“I would like to thank everyone at the club for their support and understanding during this difficult time and I look forward to returning to the club in the near future.”
Stewart’s decision to take a break from his role at Surrey has been met with an outpouring of support from the cricketing community, with many of his former teammates and opponents taking to social media to wish him and his wife well.
England captain Joe Root said: “Alec is a true legend of the game and I know he will be missed at Surrey. My thoughts are with him and Sarah at this difficult time.”
Former England batsman Marcus Trescothick added: “Alec has been a great servant to the game and I know he will be missed at Surrey. My thoughts are with him and Sarah at this difficult time.”
Stewart’s decision to take a break from his role at Surrey is a testament to his commitment to his family and his dedication to the game of cricket.
We wish him and his wife all the best during this difficult time and look forward to seeing him back at the club in the near future.
