Australian paceman Glenn McGrath is in doubt for the upcoming tour of South Africa after his English-born wife was confirmed on Friday as having a recurrence of cancer.
Cricket Australia, the sport's governing body, issued a statement on behalf of the family which said Jane McGrath would begin radiotherapy next week.
She has previously been treated successfully for breast and bone cancer.
McGrath, who pulled out of the triangular series match against South Africa in Melbourne to return to his Sydney home, has asked for privacy.
"Glenn's asked me that it remain private at the moment because it is a personal matter, so there'll be no more comment at this time," his manager Warren Craig said.
Cricket Australia said the family were optimistic.
"As with her previous episodes, both Jane and Glenn are extremely positive that the treatment will be successful and have requested that during this time, all parties respect their privacy," it said.
"It is Glenn's intention to continue playing with the Australian cricket team, however, his immediate concern is with his family, and he will discuss his playing schedule with Cricket Australia and team management in due course," it said.
McGrath withdrew from the start of Australia's 2003 tour of the West Indies when his wife was battling bone cancer, but joined his teammates with his wife's wishes for the third Test.
{{/usCountry}}McGrath withdrew from the start of Australia's 2003 tour of the West Indies when his wife was battling bone cancer, but joined his teammates with his wife's wishes for the third Test.
{{/usCountry}}The McGrath's, who have two children James and Holly, have been regular campaigners for cancer awareness and used their profile to launch the McGrath Foundation, a cancer support network.