Former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke has opened up about his long and ongoing battle with skin cancer, revealing that he has undergone multiple procedures to remove melanomas and other lesions from his face and body. Clarke, who was first diagnosed with skin cancer in 2006, shared his story on The Kyle and Jackie O Show, where he disclosed that he’s had “a number cut out” from his face over the years.
“I had one about four weeks ago off my nose, and I see my dermatologist every six months,” Michael Clarke said. “The sunspots, I get frozen. Normally, if they’re basal cells, I get them cut out… I think I’ve had seven cut out of my face.”
The 2015 World Cup-winning captain has been vocal about his health struggles, using his platform to raise awareness about the dangers of sun exposure and the importance of regular check-ups. In August, Michael Clarke shared a post-surgery photo on Instagram after having a lesion removed from his nose, urging fans to take skin cancer prevention seriously.
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“Skin cancer is real! Especially in Australia,” he wrote. “Another one cut out of my nose today. A friendly reminder to get your skin checked. Prevention is better than cure, but for me, regular check-ups and early detection are key. So grateful that Dr. Bish Soliman got it early.”
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Michael Clarke attributed his condition to years of exposure under the scorching sun during his cricket career. “Imagine fielding all day in India, out there for eight hours in the sun,” he explained. “Most players wear caps, not wide-brimmed hats, so your face, ears, and arms are constantly exposed.”
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The former Australian skipper joins a list of cricketers, including Richie Benaud, Sam Billings, Andy Flower, and Lauren Cheatle, who have fought battles with skin cancer. Known for his elegant stroke play and sharp leadership, Clarke played 115 Tests, 245 ODIs, and 34 T20Is, scoring over 17,000 international runs. He famously led Australia to the 2015 World Cup title and remains admired for his unforgettable 329 against India* during the 2011–12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Clarke’s message remains clear — no matter how tough you are, regular skin checks can save lives.
