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Former Australia batter Damien Martyn hospitalized with meningitis
Damien Martyn, who played 67 Test matches for Australia, has been placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. The 54-year-old fell ill on December 26 and is receiving treatment in a Queensland hospital.
Medical condition and treatment
Martyn was diagnosed with meningitis, an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. According to reports, medical professionals hope to bring him out of the coma in the coming days. His partner, Amanda, and family are by his side as he receives care.
Tributes and well-wishes from the cricket community
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed his concern, stating he was "saddened to hear of Damien's illness." He added that the entire cricket community's thoughts are with Martyn during this difficult time.
"The best wishes of everyone at Cricket Australia and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time."
Todd Greenberg, Cricket Australia CEO
Former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, speaking on behalf of Martyn's family, confirmed that Martyn is receiving the best possible treatment. Gilchrist also shared that the family appreciates the outpouring of support and prayers.
"He is getting the best of treatment and [Martyn's partner] Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes."
Adam Gilchrist, former Australia wicketkeeper
Former Australian Rules football player Brad Hardie, speaking on Perth radio, urged fans to keep Martyn in their thoughts. "Let's hope he can pull through, because it's really serious," Hardie said.
Messages from former teammates
Darren Lehmann, Martyn's former Australia teammate and current head coach of Northamptonshire, took to social media to express his support.
"Lots of love and prayers... Keep strong and fighting legend."
Darren Lehmann, Northamptonshire head coach
Martyn's cricket career highlights
During his international career, Martyn scored 4,406 Test runs at an average of 46.37. In One-Day Internationals (ODIs), he amassed 5,346 runs from 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 against India despite batting with a broken finger. Martyn also played county cricket for Yorkshire as an overseas player in 2003.
He represented Australia in four Ashes series and was part of two World Cup-winning teams. Martyn retired abruptly before the third Test of the 2006-07 Ashes series.
