Brad Haddin undergoes valve replacement, recovering after heart surgery

Brad Haddin is recovering after undergoing a valve replacement operation at Sydney's Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. The 47-year-old former Australia wicketkeeper-batsman spent about a week in hospital, including time in intensive care, before moving to a standard ward and then home to continue his recovery.

Speaking after his discharge, Haddin described the procedure as a success and thanked the hospital staff for their care. He noted that he would need about six weeks to recover and avoid strenuous activity, with medical guidance to ease back into training and work commitments gradually. Haddin, who has long been associated with cricket in coaching and broadcasting roles, is understood to be resting at home while his team monitors his progress.

Haddin played 66 Test matches for Australia between 2008 and 2015, forming part of a successful era for the national side before transitioning into coaching and commentary. He remains active in cricket circles and is expected to resume his broadcasting duties, including Ashes coverage, once doctors clear him for public and media work. His recovery timeline suggests a cautious return, with six weeks of limited activity outlined as a prudent path forward.

The heart issue that led to the surgery has been a familiar concern within Australian cricket. Haddin’s health scare arrives against a backdrop of notable cardiac incidents among former players in recent years. Rod Marsh, 74, and Shane Warne, 52, both died from heart-related complications in 2022. Darren Lehmann also faced a major heart event on his 50th birthday in 2020, undergoing triple bypass surgery at the time. Those cases have underscored ongoing discussions about heart health and the importance of timely medical evaluation for athletes.

As Haddin focuses on rehabilitation, family and medical teams are providing support to ensure a gradual return to public life. He is a father of three and has long spoken about balancing professional duties with health considerations. While fans and colleagues wish him a full and steady recovery, the priority remains clear: health first, then a careful, monitored comeback to the sport he helped shape.