Published: Dec 31, 2025, 10:52 AM (IST)
Edited: Dec 31, 2025, 10:52 AM (IST)
Former Australian batter Damien Martyn has been hospitalized in Queensland. The 54-year-old has been diagnosed with meningitis, a serious illness that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain. Martyn is currently in a coma and receiving treatment.
Meningitis is a potentially life-threatening condition, usually caused by viral or fungal infections, and requires immediate medical attention.
Several former cricketers have taken to social media to express their support for Martyn and his family. Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann wrote, “Sending lots of love and prayers to Damien Martyn. Stay strong and keep fighting, legend. Lots of love to the family.â€
Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist told News Corp, “He’s receiving the best possible care. Martyn’s partner Amanda and his family know that many people are sending their thoughts and prayers.â€
Martyn was widely admired in the cricketing world for his aggressive and flamboyant batting style. He represented Australia in 67 Test matches between 1992 and 2006, scoring 4406 runs at an average of 46.37, including 13 centuries. After a six-year absence, he made a strong comeback in 2000 and later retired during the 2006 Ashes series.
He was also a key member of Australia’s 1999 and 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup-winning teams. In the 2003 World Cup final in South Africa, Martyn scored an unbeaten 88 against India and shared a match-winning 234-run partnership with Ricky Ponting, helping Australia secure their second consecutive World Cup title.
In ODI cricket, Martyn scored 5346 runs at an average of 40.80, including five centuries, cementing his legacy as one of Australia’s finest middle-order batters.
