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Former Australia batter awakens from coma
Damien Martyn, the ex-Australia cricket star, has emerged from an induced coma and is recovering rapidly after being diagnosed with meningitis over a week ago, his family announced on Sunday.
Rapid turnaround stuns medical team
Martyn, 54, was admitted to Gold Coast University Hospital on 27 December after falling seriously ill. His condition deteriorated quickly, prompting doctors to place him in a medically induced coma to treat the infection.
In a statement released by former teammate Adam Gilchrist, the family described the past 48 hours as an "unbelievable turn of events." Martyn has since regained consciousness and is now able to speak, a development Gilchrist called "nothing short of miraculous."
"He has responded extraordinarily well since coming out of the coma to the point where his family feels it's like some sort of miracle. He is now able to talk."
Adam Gilchrist, former Australia wicketkeeper
Doctors optimistic about next steps
Medical staff are reportedly so encouraged by Martyn's progress that they believe he may soon be transferred out of intensive care. Gilchrist noted the speed of the recovery has been remarkable, with Martyn's condition improving dramatically in a short period.
Meningitis, an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, can become life-threatening within hours if untreated. Martyn's family expressed deep gratitude to the hospital staff for their "amazing" care during this critical time.
Cricket career highlights
Martyn, who made his Test debut at 21, played 67 Test matches for Australia between 1992 and 2006, scoring 4,406 runs at an average of 46.37. He was a key member of Australia's squad during four Ashes series and retired midway through the 2006-07 season.
A prolific one-day international batter, Martyn amassed 5,346 runs in 208 matches, including five centuries and 37 half-centuries. One of his most memorable performances came in the 2003 World Cup final, where he scored an unbeaten 88 despite batting with a broken finger to help Australia defeat India.
Martyn also had a stint with Yorkshire as an overseas player in 2003 and was part of two World Cup-winning Australian teams.
Family thanks supporters
Martyn remains hospitalized but is in "good spirits," according to the family statement. His wife, Amanda, said the outpouring of support from fans and well-wishers has played a significant role in his recovery.
"The love, goodwill and sense of care from everyone has been overwhelming."
Amanda Martyn
While Martyn continues to receive treatment, his family and medical team remain cautiously optimistic about his ongoing recovery.
