Former Australian Test batsman Damien Martyn is showing “positive signs” following his hospitalisation in an induced coma due to meningitis, according to ex-teammate Adam Gilchrist. The 54-year-old, who
played 67 Tests between 1992 and 2006 and participated in 208 one-day internationals, fell ill last week and was swiftly taken to the hospital.
Martyn was diagnosed with meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
“Thank you everyone for the heartfelt love and wishes and care for Damien as he goes through a challenging time,” Test great Gilchrist said during a Big Bash League game broadcast on Thursday evening.
“He’s still in hospital. There’ll be more details coming out as they come to hand but certainly in the last 24 hours some positive signs are the indications coming out of the various tests he’s having.”
Numerous cricket greats have posted messages of support, including former England skipper Michael Vaughan and Indian legends Ravichandran Ashwin and VVS Laxman.
Martyn, renowned for his exceptional stroke-making, became a pivotal figure in Steve Waugh’s dominant Australian side, scoring 13 centuries and averaging 46.37. He was also part of the Australian team that won the 2003 ODI World Cup, where he made an unbeaten 88 in the final against India in a match-winning partnership with Ricky Ponting.
Martyn retired during the Ashes series in 2006 and has since kept a low profile.
With AFP Inputs
