Former Australian cricket captain Richie Benaud has revealed he is battling skin cancer and is undergoing radiation therapy.

The highly regarded commentator made his illness public on Monday at the Nine Network’s launch for its summer cricket coverage.

Benaud, 84, urged people to take precautions to protect themselves in the sun.

“I recommend to everyone they wear protection on their heads. Eighty-four-year olds don’t seem to mend as well as they used to,” said Benaud.

“When I was a kid, we never ever wore a cap. I wish I had. You live and learn as you go along.”