In brief
Damien Martyn, a celebrated former Australian cricketer, is in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. The 54-year-old fell ill on December 26 and has been admitted to a Queensland hospital. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed his concern, wishing Martyn a swift recovery. Former team-mates and the wider cricket community are sending prayers and support for Martyn during this challenging time.
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 December 26 and is in a hospital in Queensland.Martyn played in four Ashes series and won two World Cups with Australia. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed his sadness over Martyn's illness, wishing him a quick recovery. The best wishes of everyone at Cricket Australia and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time, he stated.Martyn's family is receiving support from former team-mate Adam Gilchrist, who confirmed that Martyn is receiving the best treatment available.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, said Gilchrist.Reports indicate that there is hope Martyn may be brought out of his coma in the coming days.Meningitis, the condition affecting Martyn, is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord.Brad Hardie, a former Australian Rules football star, urged the public to send positive thoughts and prayers for Martyn.During his career, Martyn scored 4,406 Test runs at an average of 46.37 and was also successful in one-day internationals, amassing 5,346 runs. He stood out in the 2003 World Cup final, scoring an unbeaten 88 against India while battling through injury.
