Chris Cairns: Former New Zealand all-rounder left paralysed after stroke during heart surgery

Chris Cairns played 62 Tests, 215 one-day internationals and two Twenty20 internationals for New Zealand

Former New Zealand all-rounder Chris Cairns has been left paralysed after suffering a stroke during a heart operation, his family has confirmed.

In a statement, his family said he will now begin a "significant rehabilitation process" at a specialist spinal hospital in Australia.

They added the 51-year-old faces "a long road to recovery."

Considered one of the best all-rounders of his generation, Cairns played 62 Tests, 215 one-day internationals and two Twenty20 internationals for New Zealand between 1989 and 2006 before becoming a television pundit.

His father Lance also represented New Zealand between 1974 and 1988.

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