Former Australian Test batsman Damien Martyn has been rushed to hospital. He was placed in an induced coma after doctors diagnosed him with meningitis, Australian media reported on Wednesday.
The 54-year-old former international fell seriously ill on Boxing Day last week. Thus, he was admitted to the hospital after his condition deteriorated. Medical teams are treating him for meningitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
“He is getting the best of treatment,” said close friend and former teammate Adam Gilchrist in comments to The Australian newspaper. “Amanda, his partner, and his family know that many people are sending their prayers and best wishes.”
Messages of support have poured in from across the cricketing world. Former Australia coach and longtime teammate Darren Lehmann also shared his support on X, urging Martyn to stay strong and sending love to his family.
Former Australian Test and limited overs batsman Damien Martyn is in hospital in Brisbane in an induced coma after falling ill with meningitis.
Meningitis is an infection and swelling, or inflammation, of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord.
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— ABC SPORT (@abcsport) December 31, 2025Martyn enjoyed a distinguished international career, representing Australia in 67 Test matches between 1992 and 2006 and 208 one-day internationals. Renowned for his elegant stroke play, he scored 13 Test centuries and maintained an impressive batting average of 46.37.
He played a key role in the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, scoring a memorable unbeaten 88 in the final against India. That innings, shared in a match-winning partnership with Ricky Ponting, helped secure Australia’s world title.
Martyn retired from international cricket during the 2006 Ashes series and has largely stayed out of the public eye since. Fans and former teammates continue to express concern and hope for his recovery as he receives ongoing medical care.
