Michael Clarke's emotional message after cricket legend goes public with sad news
Former Australia cricket captain Michael Clarke says he hopes five years in breakfast radio has helped re-shape the public's perception of him as a person. The 43-year-old announced this week he would not be returning to Sky Sports Radio's Big Sports Breakfast program, citing external commitments as the main reason behind his shock departure.
Clarke joined host Gerard Middleton and NSW Origin coach and Raiders legend Laurie Daley in 2020, saying at the time: "It's a show that I have always listened to growing up. My father listens every morning. I always stayed across it during my playing days and I love the fact I have the opportunity to talk about all racing and sports, not just cricket. I think the consistency of being on radio Monday to Friday allows the Australian public to get to know me better."
The show returned for 2025 on Thursday, with Middleton paying tribute to his former colleague. "At long last we're back but, of course, not all of us," he said. "Today we will farewell 'Pup' (Clarke), our mate.
"After five years on the Big Sports Breakfast, he's off to do his own thing in podcasts, commentary, balancing family. We certainly wish him well, and he'll be sorely missed in our studio. It's even weird right now looking at the chair between Loz and I and Pup's not there." Daley added: "It's disappointing Pup won't be a part of the team this year (but) he's got plenty going on in his own life, and we wish him all the best."
Clarke has been on year-to-year contracts for the past couple of years, dodging numerous controversies along the way. The ex-Test skipper can be a polarising figure but joined the team on air on Thursday to thank the audience for giving him a shot.
"I just wanted to come on and use this opportunity to thank the listeners for accepting me on breakfast radio," he said. "I hope a lot of people just got to know me a fraction more.
"When I was playing cricket for Australia, it's dictated what media you do and you get pushed and shoved in certain directions. (Radio) has given me a chance to show a bit more of myself, whether that's a good or bad thing. One thing I do know about being on air five days a week – you can't hide who you are."
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Clarke will now put much of his energy and time into his new podcast – Beyond23 – and indulge in more overseas travel. He said: "I can have sole focus on the podcast and travel and not feel like I'm letting anyone down."
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