Jason Roy: England batter takes ‘short break’ from cricket

England batter Jason Roy has taken a “short, indefinite break from cricket” to spend time with his family.

The 31-year-old has pulled out of the Indian Premier League and will miss the start of the County Championship.

Roy was set to play for new franchise Gujarat Titans in the IPL.

“After more than two years living under Covid restrictions and in a number of bubbles, I feel now is the right time to be with my wife and young children,” he told the Surrey website.

Long-term effect of Covid bubbles on cricketers is scary, says Collingwood

Surrey’s County Championship season begins at Edgbaston against Warwickshire on 7 April with Roy expected to miss “the early rounds” of the competition.

“Everyone at Surrey is here to support Jason and fully understands his decision to step away from the game for a period of time in order to be with his family,” Alec Stewart, the club’s director of cricket, said.

“When he is ready to return to cricket, we will be here ready to help and prepare him for his upcoming challenges in the game.”

England’s next one-day international is not until 17 June when they play the Netherlands.