Former Australia Cricketer Damien Martyn in Induced Coma Following Meningitis Diagnosis

Wed Dec 31 2025 10:56:54 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Damien Martyn, the ex-Australia batter celebrated for his pivotal role in the 2003 World Cup, is currently in an induced coma due to meningitis, prompting an outpouring of support from the cricket community.

Damien Martyn, a former Australian cricketer, has been placed in an induced coma diagnosed with meningitis, following a sudden illness that arose on December 26. The cricket world has rallied in support, with messages of hope from former teammates and officials. Martyn is receiving treatment in Queensland, and there are hopes for his recovery in the coming days.

Former Australia batter Damien Martyn has been placed into an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.

The 54-year-old, who played 67 Test matches between 1992 and 2006, reportedly fell ill on 26 December and is in a hospital in Queensland.

Martyn played in four Ashes series and won two World Cups with Australia. He retired before the third Test of the 2006-07 series.

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed his sadness about Martyn's illness and shared the support of the cricket community.

Close friend and ex-teammate Adam Gilchrist stated that Martyn is receiving the best treatment and his family appreciates the outpouring of prayers and best wishes.

Reports indicate hopes that Martyn can be brought out of his coma soon.

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Former Australian Rules football star Brad Hardie urged everyone to send their best wishes to Martyn, while Darren Lehmann, another former teammate, offered words of encouragement through social media.

During his illustrious career, Martyn accumulated 4,406 Test runs at an average of 46.37 and also excelled in one-day internationals, scoring 5,346 runs from 208 matches.