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"Out there for eight hours in the sun": Michael Clarke on skin cancer risk for cricketers

Shreyasi

Michael Clarke during treatment [Source: X/@@TUnlimitedd]Michael Clarke during treatment [Source: X/@@TUnlimitedd]

Former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke shared his long battle with skin cancer since 2006. He talked about the diagnosis, the whole treatment, and revealed how direct sunlight exposure could be risky for cricketers not protecting their ears or face.

“You are not protecting your ears or face”

On The Kyle and Jackie O Show, Michael Clarke spoke in detail about his skin cancer, the conditions and the treatment that followed. Clarke was diagnosed with the same in 2006. He attributed long hours under the direct sunlight during his playing days for his skin cancer risk. Clarke explained,

“Imagine fielding all day in India, out there for eight hours in the sun, a lot of the guys are wearing the baggy green cap so you are not protecting your ears or your face. You’ve got short-sleeved shirts so your arms and the tops of your hands (are exposed).”

Clarke revealed that he had multiple melanomas and other cancers removed from his face and body over the years. He talked about the treatments following diagnosis revealing “I see my dermatologist every six months”.

“The sunspots, I get frozen. Normally, if they’re basal cell I get them cut out... I think I’ve had seven cut out of my face.”

Michael Clarke set for final appearance on Big Sports Breakfast

In August, Clarke posted a post-procedure photo on Instagram showing a plaster on his nose asking all to get skin checked. Former Australia Test captain kept himself busy after retiring from cricket by commenting, hosting a radio show, and building an audience for his new podcast. However, in January he decided to not return for Sky Racing’s Big Sports Breakfast’s next edition after hosting it for five years. According to Clarke, he would like to focus on his podcast, Beyond23 Cricket.

“A passion I started last year and have continued through the summer break in my (Beyond23 Cricket) podcast. I want to commit 100 per cent and give it everything I have.”

He added,

“I also found it quite difficult last year trying to be in two places at once with my overseas work and radio, and it looks like I will be spending more time away for business moving forward.”

The Big Sports Breakfast is set to make a return on Thursday and Clarke is expected to make a final appearance in the show.