Are elite cricketers more prone to suicide? A psychological autopsy study of Test cricketer suicides

Abstract

Objectives: It has been hypothesised that the very nature of the game predisposes elite cricketers to higher rates of suicide. Aim: We aim to estimate the suicide rate of male Test cricketers and to determine the reasons for suicide. Methods: The suicide rate in male Test cricketers was determined. A psychological autopsy was conducted using published biographical data. Results: Twenty suicides amongst 2794 male Test cricketers from 1877 to 2014 yielded a suicide rate of 715.4 per 100,000 for that period. Health, financial and relationship issues were prominent; depression and alcohol misuse were common. Conclusions: Most suicides in Test cricketers occurred post-retirement in mid to late life with similar correlates to those found in the general male population. The idiosyncrasies of cricket are unlikely to contribute to suicide; however, the post-retirement welfare of Test cricketers should remain a focus of concern and the greater supports available to contemporary Test cricketers needs to extend beyond retirement.