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Michael Clarke and friends saved man’s life in Sydney Harbour

It has been confirmed former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke and his mates leapt into action to save a man from drowning.

Michael Clarke is a hero. Picture: Tim Hunter.
Michael Clarke is a hero. Picture: Tim Hunter.

Former Australian cricket captain turned radio broadcaster Michael Clarke reportedly saved a man’s life after his boat capsized in Sydney Harbour.

Clarke was sailing with friend and accountant Anthony Bell, former Waratahs star Peter Playford and Ryan Burge in January.

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The group was heading back to Rose Bay in the eastern suburbs for lunch when they saw a man in trouble.

Speaking recently to The Daily Telegraph, Playford revealed a man was in the water after the single-person sailing boat overturned and he was heading towards the rocks. The group leapt into action, tying a rope around Clarke’s chest as stripped down and dived into the harbour.

Michael Clarke and Anthony Bell. SUPPLIED
Michael Clarke and Anthony Bell. SUPPLIED

The 40-year-old 2015 World Cup winning captain played down his role to The Daily Telegraph.

“Unfortunately for a man who is petrified of sharks, I had no choice but to dive in the water,” Clarke said.

“The weather was treacherous, we could barely see through the rain, it was bucketing down. I’d honestly prefer to face any bowler in the world over those conditions. It was terrifying.

“We towed his boat and took him to the nearest beach. Once he got his breath back, he was OK. We didn’t exchange details but I am just glad he survived.”

Two giant sharks were caught by fishermen in Sydney Harbour in February but thankfully there were none nearby when Clarke took the plunge.

Read related topics:Sydney

Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/sport/sports-life/michael-clarke-and-friends-saved-mans-life-in-sydney-harbour/news-story/000f5bb144f7931615a5e23d5c665e9a