Australia Cricket Great Damien Martyn In Induced Coma After Serious Illness

Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn has been hospitalised and placed in an induced coma after a meningitis diagnosis, according to several media reports on Wednesday. The 54-year-old former batter, who featured in 67 Tests from 1992 to 2006 and participated in 208 one-day internationals, was admitted on Boxing Day last week after falling ill.

Australian media confirmed that Martyn is being treated for meningitis, which can be fatal. Meningitis involves the inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

“He is receiving the best possible treatment,” said Test legend and close friend Adam Gilchrist to The Australian newspaper. “Amanda (his partner) and his family appreciate the prayers and well-wishes from everyone.”

Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann, Martyn’s long-time teammate, also expressed his support. “Lots of love and prayers… stay strong and keep fighting, legend. Love to the family,” he wrote on X.

Celebrated as one of cricket’s great strokemakers, Martyn played a crucial role in Steve Waugh’s dominant Australian team, scoring 13 centuries and maintaining an average of 46.37. He was also part of the Australian squad that clinched the 2003 ODI World Cup, contributing an unbeaten 88 in the final against India in a match-winning partnership with Ricky Ponting.

“I’m saddened to hear of Damien’s illness. The best wishes of everyone at Cricket Australia and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time,” Cricket Australia’s CEO Todd Greenberg said in a statement.

Martyn retired in 2006 during the Ashes series and became a commentator later on but has mostly maintained a low profile.