Michael Clarke has opened up about his relationship with Arabella Sherborne, offering rare insight into their romance while making one thing crystal clear: his daughter Kelsey Lee remains his top priority.
Speaking candidly to Stellar magazine, the 44-year-old former Australian cricket captain said his relationship with Arabella works because she has understood his role as a father from the very beginning.
Clarke shares 10-year-old Kelsey Lee with his ex-wife Kyly Clarke and says his life is structured entirely around his daughter.
“I think what Bella has seen from day one in our relationship is that Kelsey Lee is at the forefront of that,” Michael said, explaining that any partner in his life needs to be genuinely comfortable with that reality.
Michael admitted that not everyone would find such an arrangement easy, which is why he feels especially grateful for Arabella’s understanding and support.
The couple met in late 2023 through mutual friends, but their connection developed unconventionally.
Shortly after meeting, Michael left Australia for several months to commentate on cricket overseas, meaning the early stages of their relationship were built on long conversations rather than traditional dates.
Despite the distance, Michael said their bond deepened through friendship first – something he believes is the foundation of their romance.
“The one thing I’ve always cared about most in our relationship is that we have an unbelievable friendship,” he shared.
Arabella has since embraced Michael’s family life, forming a close bond with Kelsey Lee and fitting into his carefully balanced co-parenting routine.
Michael has 50 per cent custody of his daughter and is heavily involved in her daily life, from school runs to weekend activities.
He described the relationship between Arabella and Kelsey as particularly special, likening it to a big-sister dynamic.
Importantly, Arabella also maintains a positive relationship with Kyly Clarke, something Michael believes is vital for his daughter’s wellbeing.
Even during weeks when Kelsey is with her mother, Michael makes a point of seeing her daily, whether through school drop-offs or quick visits.
When Michael and Arabella do get time alone, they keep things low-key, preferring walks, dinners and quiet nights at home over high-profile events.
Arabella also plays a role in Michael’s professional life, running her own executive concierge business and assisting with coordinating his busy schedule.