Former Australia cricketer Damien Martyn, a key member of the country’s golden era and a hero of the 2003 ICC World Cup final, has reportedly been hospitalised and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.
The update on Martyn’s condition was shared by former Australian Football League (AFL) player Brad Hardie, with The Guardian reporting the development. Speaking to 6PR, Hardie said the 54-year-old “is in for the fight of his life,” adding, “Let’s hope he can pull through because it’s really serious.”
What we know about Damien Martyn’s health
According to reports, Martyn fell ill on Boxing Day, December 26, and was admitted to a hospital in Queensland. He has since been diagnosed with meningitis and remains in a serious condition. No detailed medical bulletin has been issued publicly, but former teammates and the Australian cricket fraternity have expressed concern and support.
Several of Martyn’s former colleagues have sent messages wishing him a speedy recovery. Darren Lehmann, who played alongside him for Australia, urged Martyn to “keep strong.”
Former Australia captain Adam Gilchrist, a close friend, told News Corp that Martyn is receiving the “best of treatment” and that his family is aware of the prayers and messages coming in from across the cricketing world.
Cricket Australia chief Todd Greenberg also expressed his concern, saying, “I’m saddened to hear of Damien’s illness. The best wishes of everyone at Cricket Australia and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time.”
Who is Damien Martyn?
Damien Martyn is regarded as one of the most naturally gifted batters Australia has produced. He represented Australia in 67 Test matches and 208 One-Day Internationals between 1992 and 2006, scoring 4,406 Test runs at an impressive average of 46.37.
Martyn played a crucial role in Australia’s 2003 World Cup triumph, producing one of the most memorable innings in a final. Batting with a broken finger, he scored an unbeaten 88 against India in Johannesburg, helping Australia secure a dominant 125-run victory. The knock cemented his reputation as a big-match performer.
Beyond the World Cup, Martyn was also instrumental in Australia’s historic 2004 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win in India, where he was named Player of the Series after delivering match-winning performances on the subcontinent. Known for his elegant stroke play, he was also an excellent fielder, particularly in the covers, and a handy occasional fast bowler.
Martyn retired from international cricket in 2006, midway through that year’s Ashes series. He briefly worked in cricket commentary before choosing to step away from public life and live more privately.
This is a developing story, and further updates on Damien Martyn’s condition are awaited.
