Sydney, May 30: Former Australia off-spinner Gavin Robertson has revealed he is battling brain cancer, with high-profile ex-players rallying around him.
The 53-year-old, who played four Tests and 13 one-dayers before becoming a commentator, was rushed into surgery earlier this month to remove a tumour.
He now faces intense radiation and chemo therapy to contain the cancer.
"It has been an emotional rollercoaster, consuming each and every minute of my day, and now I am ready and able to meet this challenge that confronts me," Robertson said in a statement.
His Test skipper Mark Taylor praised his fighting spirit.
"Always chin up, with a smile on his face, enjoying life; as a cricketer and as a person. That vibrancy, that always looking for the positive; that was what Gav was very good at," he told reporters.
Thinking of Gavin Robertson and his family at this tough time, the world is testing all of us and many others affected by Cancer, keep going @GavRobbo375 @MarkAllenGolf you are true champions, your families are great pillars of strength and our thoughts are with you all. Xxxx
— Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) May 28, 2019
"I hope that will hold him in good stead in the weeks, months and maybe years ahead for him." Ex-Australia coach Darren Lehmann added on Twitter: "Thinking of Gavin Robertson and his family at this tough time," while Tom Moody said: Stay strong Robbo, all our prayers are with you mate.
Thinking of Gavin Robertson this evening as he battles brain cancer. One of the good guys, stay strong Robbo all our prayers are with you mate. @GavRobbo375
— Tom Moody (@TomMoodyCricket) May 28, 2019