Cricket legend and ex-Australia captain, Allan Border, has publicly disclosed his ongoing battle with Parkinson’s disease, acknowledging that living to see his 80th birthday would be nothing short of a “miracle”.
Border, who led Australia to their first-ever World Cup triumph in 1987 and once held the record for the most runs in test cricket, was diagnosed with the progressive brain disorder in 2016 but opted to keep it private until now.
Characterised by symptoms such as tremors, muscle rigidity, and loss of muscle control, Parkinson’s is currently incurable.
“I didn’t want to be pitied. I didn’t know how people would react. But I realize the day will come when it becomes noticeable,” Border, who will turn 68 in July, shared with News Corp.
He remains hopeful and unafraid, despite the daunting prognosis. “Right now, at least I’m not scared about the near future. If I reach 80, it would be a miracle,” he added.
Border, a cricketing titan whose name adorns the Border-Gavaskar trophy for the test series between India and Australia, received an outpouring support from the cricket community following his revelation.
Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc said, “It’s heartbreaking to hear about one of Australian cricket’s finest. He’s a massive figure in the cricket world. Our thoughts are with AB and his family.”
