BRISBANE, Australia — The global cricket community has united in support of former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn, who remains hospitalized in serious condition battling meningitis. The 54-year-old right-handed batsman, renowned for his elegant stroke play during a distinguished international career, is currently receiving intensive medical care at a Brisbane hospital.
According to multiple Australian media reports confirmed Wednesday, Martyn has been placed in an induced coma as medical professionals treat a severe case of meningitis. The former Western Australia captain fell critically ill in recent days, prompting an outpouring of support from teammates, cricket officials, and fans worldwide.
Former Test teammate Darren Lehmann expressed emotional support on social media, writing: “Lots of love and prayers sending Damien Martyn’s way. Keep strong and fighting legend. Love to the family.” Close friend and former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist told News Corp that Martyn is “getting the best of treatment” while acknowledging the widespread support from the cricket community.
Cricket Australia Chief Executive Todd Greenberg issued an official statement expressing profound concern: “I’m saddened to hear of Damien’s illness. The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time.”
Martyn’s international career spanned 67 Test matches where he maintained an impressive batting average of 46.37, including 13 centuries with a highest score of 165 against New Zealand in 2005. The Darwin-born cricketer made his Test debut at just 21 years old during the 1992-93 home series against West Indies, replacing veteran Dean Jones.
Beyond his Test accomplishments, Martyn represented Australia in 208 One-Day Internationals, averaging 40.8 runs. He was instrumental in two World Cup victories (1999 and 2003), famously scoring an unbeaten 88 in the 2003 final against India while batting with a broken finger. Martyn also contributed to Australia’s 2006 Champions Trophy triumph before transitioning into commentary work following his retirement from international cricket after the 2006-07 Ashes series.