Former Australian spinner Gavin Robertson in the 'fight of his life'

After reportedly feeling unwell, Robertson went to the doctor to be checked out and within hours received the devastating news he had a brain cancer. Photo / Facebook

Former Australian Test spinner Gavin Robertson finds himself in the fight of his life after receiving a "heartbreaking" diagnosis.

Robertson's cricketing career was as up and down as they come, but the man who donned the baggy green four times now faces his toughest task.

After reportedly feeling unwell, Robertson went to the doctor to be checked out and within hours received the devastating news he had a brain cancer.

Hoping for good results sticky. Not up & about but trying and hopeful brain Tuma 3x3 cm Fingers crossed. Thanks for your thoughts and care mate. GR

— Gavin Robertson (@GavRobbo375) May 20, 2019

But speaking on Macquarie Sports Radio, Mat Thompson revealed the former spinner had undergone surgery and was now in the real fight.

"I want to wish our mate Gavin Robertson a happy birthday. I know he's had happier birthdays than the one he's experiencing right now," Thompson said.

"But he has a wonderfully supporting family, great friends and many wellwishers among the supporting public.

"Sadly, the news for Gav is not great.

"I told you a couple weeks back that he'd been feeling unwell with a variety of symptoms, which prompted him to go and seek advice from the great professor Doctor Charlie Teo and within hours he'd been diagnosed with a brain tumour and was in surgery.

"I received an update from Gavin's family last evening and it's bad news. Robbo is facing a very long fight.

Robertson back in his days with the NSW Blues.

"When one of the good guys is faced with a struggle like Gavin is, it's absolutely heartbreaking.

"When I heard the news of his diagnosis last night I was numb. He's a man who I've respected enormously for many years.

"He's in for the fight of his life."

The family posted a photo of Robertson following his operation with an update on how it had unfolded.

"It's time to get to u all and tell where dad is at. He's had a brain tumour removed on Monday and waiting a week to find out where he's at with the cancer level and what happens from here," the post read.

"It's all happened quickly but Dr Charlie Teo is his friend and he told him at 12 pm Monday to get to his surgery and he operated 5 hrs later.

"Dads had over 400 msgs but I'm just filling in the rest of our friends. Fingers crossed. Keep u up to date. Jake Zoe & Brittany."

It’s time to get to u all and tell where dad is at. He’s had a brain Tumour removed on Monday and waiting a week to...

Posted by Gavin Robertson on Tuesday, 14 May 2019

Robertson's cricket career began in 1987 with the NSW Blues where he struggled to land a spot in the team.

A move to Tasmania two seasons later helped boost his career and after several seasons he found himself back in NSW and helping the Blues claim the Sheffield Shield trophy in 1992-93.

He made his Test debut for Australia against India in 1998, claiming five wickets with his right-handed off-spin bowling.

After retiring from cricket in 2000, Robertson moved into the media and makes regular appearances on Fox Sports' Bill and Boz program.