Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn is fighting for his life after being hospitalised and placed in an induced coma. The 54-year-old ex-batter fell seriously ill on Boxing Day, 26 December, and has been diagnosed with meningitis.
Serious Health Battle for Cricket Star
The gravity of Martyn's condition was revealed by former Australian Football League player Brad Hardie. Speaking to radio station 6PR, Hardie confirmed the cricketer is in a critical state, stating Martyn "is in for the fight of his life." He added a note of hope, saying, "Let’s hope he can pull through because it’s really serious." Martyn is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Queensland, Australia.
Former Teammates and Cricket Fraternity Rally
News of Martyn's hospitalisation has prompted an outpouring of support from the global cricket community. His former teammate and close friend, wicketkeeping legend Adam Gilchrist, told News Corp that Martyn was under the "best of treatment" and that his family was aware of the prayers and good wishes.
Darren Lehmann, another former colleague, took to social media to urge Martyn to "keep strong." The chief executive of Cricket Australia, Todd Greenberg, also expressed his 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," Greenberg said.
A Glittering Career Remembered
Damien Martyn is remembered as one of Australia's most elegant and talented batters of his generation. His international career spanned from 1992 to 2006, during which he amassed 4,406 runs in 67 Test matches at an impressive average of 46.37.
Martyn played several match-winning knocks, but his unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final against India stands out. He braved a broken finger to guide Australia to a massive 125-run victory. He was also a brilliant fielder, particularly in the covers, and a handy occasional medium-pace bowler.
His crowning individual achievement was being named the Player of the Series in the 2004 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His performances were instrumental in Australia's historic series win in India, their first on Indian soil in over 35 years. Martyn retired from international cricket midway through the 2006 Ashes series and later had a brief stint in commentary before choosing a life away from the public spotlight.
The cricket world now waits anxiously, hoping for positive news on the recovery of one of its most stylish sons.
