UPDATE: CHANNEL Nine commentator Mark Nicholas’ illness has forced the Channel Nine cricket commentator to take leave after he was taken out of the MCG broadcast box on a stretcher for the second time in three days.

After resting on day two, he returned to work on Wednesday.

But Nicholas fell ill again and had to return to hospital.

“Mark is taking leave to resolve his health issues,” a Nine spokesman said.

“He wants to thank everyone again for their kind wishes and continued support.”

It’s understood Nicholas struggled to get through a tea time segment with Pakistan great Wasim Akram before again succumbing to severe abdominal-related pain in the breakout area off air.

He was sweating profusely and later complained of headaches.

media_camera Channel Nine cricket host Mark Nicholas has been taken to hospital again

Australian team doctor Peter Brukner was immediately called to assist Nicholas before paramedics were called to stretcher the 59-year-old to a waiting ambulance and then to hospital for further testing.

Nicholas left the MCG in agony, but conscious and breathing.

The latest incident wasn’t as dramatic as the events on Boxing Day when Nicholas was rushed to hospital after breaking out in a frightful sweat.

However, there are concerns that the problem hasn’t been fully diagnosed and that Nicholas has suffered a reoccurrence just two days later.

It’s understood Nicholas spent Wednesday night at Epworth Hospital under observation.

Mark Nicholas has been transported out of MCG again on a stretcher. He was conscious and in pain. — Ben Horne (@BenHorne8) December 28, 2016

Was treated by Australian team doctor after another episode. Fingers crossed for him. — Ben Horne (@BenHorne8) December 28, 2016

“Unfortunately Mark has taken ill again,” said a Nine spokesman on Wednesday.

“He has been transported back to hospital for further tests.”

Nicholas checked out of hospital late Boxing Day evening and was hoping to return to commentary on day two, only to be ordered to take a day off.

However, the English-born former first-class cricketer and respected caller told colleagues he felt right as rain returning to his job on Wednesday.

He did several stints in the commentary box, but immediately after tea he broke down and Brukner was called to provide immediate assistance by Cricket Australia staff.

The shock of a second incident though may prompt him to consider a longer spell away from the box.