 | « Back to article | Print this article |
England wicketkeeper Steven Davies has become the first active professional cricketer to declare that he is gay.
The 24-year-old, who has played eight One-dayers and five Twenty20 internationals for England, said he has discussed the matter with his family and considers it right to open up about his sexuality.
"I'm comfortable with who I am -- and happy to say who I am in public," Davies told The Daily Telegraph.
"This is the right time for me...I feel it is right to be out in the open about my sexuality. If more people do it, the more acceptable it will become. That must be a good thing.
"To speak out is a massive relief for me, but if I can just help one person to deal with their sexuality then that's all I care about," he added.
The former England under-19 captain said he has already revealed it to his senior national team-mates, who have been supportive.
Davies said having found acceptance among his family and teammates, he was now looking forward to getting the support of the fans as well.
"I hope it's all going to be fine with the fans," Davies said.
"If there is any abuse or anything then I don't need to worry about those people giving it out. The people that matter to me are family, friends and my team-mates, and everyone has been so amazing, that's what counts," he added.
Sussex bowler Alan Hansford, who played first class cricket between 1989 and 1992, is considered the only other openly gay player but he revealed his sexual orientation only after his retirement.