Cricket: Canterbury’s Andrew Hazeldine Diagnosed With Cancer, Will Miss National Summer Season

The career of a world-class cricketer from New Zealand was put on hold after he was diagnosed with cancer.

Canterbury’s left arm fast thrower Andrew Hazeldine, 26, was informed in September that he had Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and while early detection meant that a treatment plan could be implemented in time, Hazeldine will not be able to play this summer.

In a statement, Canterbury Cricket High Performance Manager Marty Croy said it is a “disturbing” situation for Hazeldine.

“Our thoughts are with him and his family at this time. We will continue to support him through his treatment and recovery and look forward to seeing him healthy again next year,” said Croy.

The Portsmouth-born paceman made his debut for Canterbury in 2017, claiming career-best 5-33 figures in a Plunket Shield match against Otago in 2018, and has played 32 matches for Canterbury in all formats.

In the absence of Hazeldine, closer Jackson Latham has been added to Canterbury’s roster of players for the season.

“It is an unfortunate situation, but I am grateful for the opportunity to focus on my cricket full time,” Latham said.

“Last season taught me to be patient and it’s great to be in the national team’s image should I be called upon. I’m looking forward to improving my game and making the most of my summer with Canterbury.