Cameron Green, Australia’s all-rounder, has disclosed that he was born with chronic kidney disease and that his parents were told he might not live past the age of 12.
Green told Channel 7 that the problem was discovered during his mother’s 19-week scan and that he was still researching the disease.
“Basically, my kidneys don’t work as well as other people’s and don’t filter the blood very well,” said the 24-year-old.
“So I have to keep my salt and protein intake quite low, which isn’t ideal as a cricketer, but I can pick that protein intake back up around games because I spend so much of it out on the ground.”
“I have always done everything right, eating and drinking in a professional way … but it is a work in progress.”
Green stated that he had 60% renal function and that his condition was at stage two, with five being the most severe.
“The kidneys don’t heal,” he explained. “If you don’t take care of them, it can get worse.” Perhaps not in a matter of months, but certainly over time.”
Green, who has played 24 tests, is part of Australia’s squad for the series against Pakistan but will not play in the first match, which begins on Thursday in Perth.