KEY POINTS
- The cricket legend is receiving intensive treatment for serious illness.
- Global cricket community is rallying with messages of support and prayers.
SYDNEY, Australia: Former Australian Test batsman Damien Martyn has been hospitalized and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis, according to Australian media reports on Wednesday.
The 54-year-old cricket great was admitted on Boxing Day, December 26, after falling seriously ill.
Martyn, who played 67 Tests and 208 One-Day Internationals between 1992 and 2006, is reportedly receiving intensive treatment for the potentially life-threatening condition.
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Cricket community rallies with support
News of Martyn’s illness has prompted an outpouring of support from the global cricket community.
His close friend and former teammate, wicketkeeping legend Adam Gilchrist, provided an update to The Australian newspaper.
“He is getting the best of treatment,” Gilchrist said. “Amanda (his partner) and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes.”
Former Australian coach and long-time teammate Darren Lehmann also expressed his concern on the social media platform X.
“Lots of love and prayers, keep strong and fighting, legend. Love to the family,” Lehmann wrote.
Stellar career remembered
Martyn is remembered as one of the most elegant and gifted stroke makers of his generation.
A key member of Steve Waugh’s dominant Australian side, he scored 13 Test centuries and averaged an impressive 46.37 in the longest format of the game.
His career highlight includes playing a crucial, unbeaten innings of 88 in the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup final against India.
His match-winning partnership with captain Ricky Ponting secured Australia’s victory and cemented his place in World Cup history.
Martyn retired from international cricket unexpectedly during the 2006-07 Ashes series and has maintained a relatively low public profile since leaving the sport.
The cricket world now awaits further news on his condition, hoping for a full recovery for the beloved former champion.
