SYDNEY, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) -- Australian cricket legend Matthew Hayden is recovering in hospital after a surfing accident left him with serious neck and spine injuries.
The former test match opening batsman was surfing with his son off Stradbroke Island in Queensland on Friday when a mishap caused him to fracture a spinal vertebra and two ligaments in his neck, as well as leaving him with grazes to his head.
Posting on social media, the 46-year-old expressed thanks and gratitude that his injuries were accurately diagnosed and treated.
"Just wanted to say a big thank you to all our mates on [Stradbroke] who have been so supportive," Hayden said.
"Fractured C6, torn C5, C4 ligaments safe to say I truly have dodged a bullet."
Hayden retired from international cricket in 2009 after playing over 100 test matches for Australia, during which time he formed a record-breaking opening partnership with current national team coach Justin Langer.
