The tragic decline of former England and Northamptonshire batsman Colin Milburn is the focus of a critically acclaimed new play which comes to South East Cornwall.

When the Eye Has Gone enjoyed a sellout national tour of the UK last autumn. Produced jointly by Roughhouse and Live Wire Theatre, the play was commissioned by The Professional Cricketers’ Association as part of its Mind Matters campaign to raise awareness of mental health and well-being issues in sport.

David Leatherdale, chief executive of the PCA, said: ‘There have been too many tragic instances of ex-professional sportsmen and women losing their way when their playing days are over. We hope that seeing When the Eye Has Gone will help to raise awareness and understanding of the issues behind these tragedies.’

The play reveals how Colin Milburn struggled to cope with life without cricket after his career was ended when he lost his left eye in a car crash. 

But director Shane Morgan does not want potential audiences to think they are in for 70 minutes of unremitting gloom.  ‘What sets this play apart is the energy, variety and extraordinary humour that Milburn deployed. He was an amazing man and the most unlikely sporting hero.’

Actor Dan Gaisford brings Milburn to life as well as 55 other characters, all of whom had a big impact on Milburn’s life.

The play is performed on March 10 and 11 at Sterts Arts Centre, at Upton Cross, near Liskeard (01579 362382; www.sterts.co.uk).