Former Hampshire captain Mark Nicholas was absent from Channel Nine's coverage of Australia's third Test with Pakistan at Sydney.

The 59-year-old, who anchors the host broadcaster's coverage, fell ill during last week's Boxing Day Test, twice being taken to hospital with abdominal pains.

He was reportedly taken away from the MCG on a stretcher on the opening day's play and then again on the third day before being given leave for the final two days.

And he is now enjoying an extended period of recuperation as he did not appear on the first day of the third Test at the SCG, with Michael Slater filling in on presenting duties.

Nicholas, who captained Hampshire to four one-day trophies and also led England A during his 18-year playing career, has fronted cricket coverage in Australia for over a decade and is also part of Channel 5's England coverage in the UK.