Alec Stewart to take temporary leave of absence from Surrey CCC

Surrey’s director of cricket Alec Stewart is to take temporary leave of absence due to a family illness.

The reigning County Championship champions have issued a statement this afternoon.

“Alec’s wife Lynn has been fighting cancer since 2013 and as she begins a new course of treatment, in order to care for his wife and family at this difficult time, Alec has decided to temporarily step away from his day-to-day duties,” said Surrey.

“Alec has requested people respect his privacy as he takes a break from cricket.

“Steve Elworthy, CEO of Surrey County Cricket Club, will assume the club’s director of cricket duties on an interim basis.”

Elworthy said: “All of our thoughts are with Alec, Lynn and the family and we wish them the very best.

“The club will fully support Alec and the family through this leave of absence and ask everyone to please respect his request for privacy.”