Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn has been hospitalised in Brisbane after being diagnosed with meningitis. The 54-year-old, a two-time World Cup winner, is currently in an induced coma as doctors treat the serious infection.
According to Code Sports, Martyn fell ill on Boxing Day while resting at his home on the Gold Coast. His condition worsened, following which he was rushed to a Brisbane hospital. Reports describe his situation as critical, with Martyn battling what has been called “the fight of his life.”
Former Australia teammate Darren Lehmann shared a message of support on social media, writing, “Lots of love and prayers sending (at) damienmartyn way. Keep strong and fighting legend. Love to the family.”
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Close friend and former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist told News Corp., “He is getting the best of treatment and (Martyn’s partner) Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes.”
Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg also expressed concern and support. “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,” Greenberg said.
The situation was first reported by broadcaster and former Brownlow Medallist Brad Hardie on his 6PR radio show. “Damien Martyn, the champ from WA, fantastic batsman … unfortunately took ill on Boxing Day and currently is residing in a Queensland hospital, and he is in for the fight of his life,” Hardie said. “I’d like everybody to certainly have their best wishes and positive thoughts for Marto. God give him strength. Let’s hope he can pull through because it’s really serious.”
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Who is Damien Martyn?
Born in Darwin, Damien Martyn made his Test debut for Australia at the age of 21 during the 1992–93 home series against the West Indies. He quickly became known for his calm nature and effortless batting style. At just 23, he was named captain of Western Australia, highlighting the trust placed in him early in his career.
Martyn played 67 Test matches for Australia and scored runs at an average of 46.37. One of his most memorable innings came in 2005, when he scored 165 against New Zealand. He finished his Test career with 13 centuries and was widely admired for his elegance at the crease.
In one-day cricket, Martyn featured in 208 matches and averaged 40.8. He was a key member of Australia’s golden era in the early 2000s. He was part of the teams that won the ICC Cricket World Cup in 1999 and 2003, as well as the ICC Champions Trophy in 2006. In the 2003 World Cup final against India, he famously scored an unbeaten 88 despite playing with a broken finger.
