The New Zealand media reported on Friday that Chris Cairns suffered a stroke during emergency surgery. As a result, his legs are now suffering from paralysis. His lawyer Aaron Lloyd said Chris is facing a "significant rehabilitation process" at a specialist spinal hospital.
"During the life-saving emergency heart surgery Chris underwent in Sydney he suffered a stroke in his spine. This has resulted in paralysis in his legs. As a result he will be undertaking a significant rehabilitation process at a specialist spinal hospital in Australia."
Aaron Lloyd | Chris Cairns' lawyer
The statement further read, "Chris and his family remain appreciative of the immense public support as they deal with this difficult time. They also appreciate the way in which their privacy has been respected."
"Chris and his family now want to focus on spending time together where possible and making whatever progress they can in his recovery. We will update everyone when there is more news, but that is likely to be sometime away."
Chris Cairns son of former test player Lance Cairns; played 62 tests, 215 ODIs and two T20 International for New Zealand between 1989 and 2006.