‘Skating has helped to cut my anxiety’

RYAN Sidebottom has revealed Dancing on Ice is helping him beat anxiety.

The cricket legend, 41, was hit by the condition after both his marriage and sporting career ended two years ago.

He told the Daily Star Sunday: “Sportsmen retire between 25 and 35. When it all finishes you miss that camaraderie and team spirit. You’re used to having steady work all the time. Without that you feel as though you’ve lost your self-worth.

“But I feel happy now. I’m in a good place. I’ve been very lucky to be asked to do Dancing on Ice. I’m loving it.

“This show is allencompassing. I’ve made new friends and we’re looking after each other so I don’t have any anxiety.

“I’ve learned over time to just enjoy life and smile and be happy as much as I can. People struggle with things but they just crack on and that’s what I’ve tried to do.”

The ex-England star also credits girlfriend Maddie Corrigan for helping him get his life back on track.

He said: “Maddie has been my rock. She has brought the best out of me. She’s been a constant support. I probably wouldn’t be doing Dancing on Ice if it wasn’t for her. She pushes me and gets me to bring my personality out.

“We have so much fun together. I’m always laughing and joking when

I’m with her.”

Ryan and his pro partner Brandee Malto are tipped to get voted off

Dancing on Ice tonight. They have already survived the skate-off twice.

He said: “At the end of the day I’m just a cricketer.

This is something

I’ve never done before.

“I couldn’t even stand up on the ice.

But I try my best. I want to show that if you put your mind to something, you can achieve it.

“I don’t want it to end. Hopefully I can get a little bit further.

“There are some amazing skaters left in the competition. It’s getting harder. But all I can do is give my best.”