Klinger ponders break from cricket after wife diagnosed with cancer

Khulna Titans and Perth Scorchers star Michael Klinger revealed that he might take a break from cricket after his wife was diagnosed with cancer. In a letter released by the Scorchers website, on behalf of the veteran Australia batsman, Klinger informed that his wife Cindy has breast cancer which has spread to her spine. The couple have three children, aged seven, five and one.

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family @maxyklinger https://t.co/g9CB567OQq

— Khulna Titans (@khulnatitans) December 20, 2017

Klinger, popularly known as Maxy in the cricket circuit, stated that he would put cricket as his secondary option. He said he needs to take care of his wife, but may still play as she says it will be a good distraction for her and their children. "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," the letter says.

Love, strength and courage to you and your family Maxy. ?? @maxyklinger https://t.co/JZ1HS1Hkoh

— Adam Gilchrist (@gilly381) December 19, 2017

"Cindy will fight and we, as a family, will be right there with her throughout the battle, supporting her in every way we can." According to news reports, Scorchers coach Justin Langer said the team were feeling for Klinger and his family. Langer said the veteran batsman has the team's full support.

Thoughts are with Michael and his family at this tough time. https://t.co/PjeiBe0wZ8

— Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) December 19, 2017

"We've got his (Kilnger) back, we've got his family's back. It's a really simple message to Michael that his family is absolutely No 1 priority, there's zero expectation from our point of view," said Langer. Meanwhile, Khulna team manager and former Bangladesh cricketer Nafees Iqbal extended full support on behalf of the BPL franchise to the Australia batsman. Klinger made his BPL T20 debut in the just concluded fifth edition of the tournament.

Thoughts and best wishes with @maxyklinger and his family. It's 11 years to the day that my wife went under the knife to remove a Brain Tumour the size of an orange. Fortunately our wives are generally tougher than us, so stay strong and keep fighting. https://t.co/xWFK3TYJy4

— Ashley Giles (@Gilo) December 20, 2017

“We are really saddened after hearing the news. Klinger played for the Titans this season in BPL and it is great to have a gentleman like him in the dressing room. At his critical time I would like to ask the Titans fans to pray for him, his wife and family. The Titans management and players have got his back,” said Nafees. Klinger played seven matches for Khulna in BPL 2017 and scored 154 runs. His knock of 47 not out against Sylhet Sixers on his BPL debut was his personal best this season.