Michael Klinger reveals shocking news in an open letter, to miss majority of BBL 7

Perth Scorchers and Australia batsman Michael Klinger revealed that he isn’t sure if he’ll feature in the ongoing edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) after his wife Cindy was diagnosed with breast cancer. Klinger revealed the shocking news in an open letter on the Scorchers’ website, saying cricket is now secondary and wants to commit all his time to help his wife win the battle of her life.

Although Klinger says he may still play some games for the Scorchers this summer, he chooses to prioritise his wife’s health and any appointments she may have. The 37-year-old said Cindy underwent a routine scan on her back last week after experiencing pain in the area. Those scans and a subsequent biopsy revealed Cindy had breast cancer, and that it had spread to at least three spots on her spine.

Klinger wrote on the Scorchers’ website, “Playing cricket, right at this moment, is secondary. It still may happen, because Cindy wants me to play and says it will be a good distraction for her and the kids to see me do so, either on TV or at [the Waca].”

He added, “But, by my choice, if playing clashes with any appointments or treatments, or if Cindy or the kids need me, I will be by their side.”

Scorchers’ to miss the services of key players

The loss of Klinger for some, or most of the season, will be a big blow to the defending champions of BBL 7, who have already been hit hard by injuries and international call-ups. Star pace duo Nathan Coulter-Nile (back) and Jason Behrendorff (back) will miss the start of the season, while Sam Whiteman (finger) is still at least three weeks away from resuming. The triad of Shaun Marsh, Mitch Marsh, and Cameron Bancroft are on Ashes duties.

The Scorchers’ title defence begins against the Sydney Sixers at the SCG on Saturday.