New Zealand cricketer's career under threat after being diagnosed with cancer

A 26-year-old pacer from New Zealand, Andrew Hazeldine, who plays in the domestic circuit for Canterbury, has met with some unfortunate incident of his life. The young cricketer has been diagnosed with a form of cancer and is forced to cease his domestic season as of now. It was during the month of September when Hazeldine got the diagnosis of the severe disease Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. It is a type of cancer that attacks the healthy cells of the immune system.

In a fortunate turn of incidents, his condition got diagnosed too early, and the chances of his full recovery are probable. Hazeldine is already eyeing the next domestic season given he makes full recovery from his illness. The young pacer marked his debut for Canterbury back in 2018 and has picked 35 wickets in 14 First-Class matches he has been part of to date. His best figures are registered as 5/33 and 21 dismissals in 16 List A games.

It’s an upsetting situation for Andrew Hazeldine: Marty Croy

“Naturally, it’s an upsetting situation for Andrew, and our thoughts are with him and his family at this time. We’ll continue to support him throughout his treatment and recovery and look forward to seeing him back healthy next year,” stated Canterbury Cricket high-performance manager Marty Croy as quoted by Hindustan Times.

The pacer was up in the competitive cricket this March while he plied his trade in the Plunkett Shield tournament in the contest against Otago. Burnside West seamer Jackson Latham has replaced Hazeldine for now as the latter will be off for his treatment. Latham, who has got the chance in place of him, seems happy and feels he can now focus on his cricket full time. On the other hand, Latham also called Hazeldine’s situation unfortunate.

“It’s an unfortunate situation, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to focus on my cricket full-time. Last season taught me to be patient, and it’s great to be in the picture for selection should I be required,” Latham added.
He might take some time to recover with his condition, but the chances of his full recovery are very much possible, and he would be trying his best to return to action soon.