Former Australian batter Damien Martyn has been hospitalized in Queensland after falling ill with meningitis. The 54-year-old was taken unwell on Boxing Day and is currently in an induced coma. The news was confirmed on Tuesday, with former players and officials sharing messages of support.
Close friend Adam Gilchrist said Martyn is receiving the best possible treatment and that his partner, Amanda, and family are aware of the strong support and prayers coming from across the cricket community.
Former teammate Darren Lehmann shared a message of support on social media, wishing Martyn strength and sending love to his family. Todd Greenberg, CEO of Cricket Australia, also voiced his worry and said that everyone at CA is thinking of Martyn during this difficult time.
Meningitis is a serious condition that causes inflammation around the brain and spinal cord. Reports say there is hope Martyn could be brought out of his coma in the coming days as treatment continues.
Damien Martyn’s Career and Retirement
Damien Martyn played 67 Tests and 208 ODIs for Australia and was a key part of one of the country’s most successful eras. He was a member of Australia’s World Cup-winning teams in 1999 and 2003 and also won the 2006 ICC Champions Trophy.
He amassed 4406 runs at an average of 46.37 in Test cricket, including 13 hundreds. In the 2003 World Cup final against India, he scored an undefeated 88 and partnered with Ricky Ponting to win the match.
Martyn retired from international cricket during the 2006–07 Ashes series and later worked briefly in commentary before keeping a low public profile.
Martyn retired from international cricket in 2006 and has mostly stayed out of the spotlight since then. Just a day before falling ill, he had posted on social media about the Boxing Day Test match.
FAQs
Q. Why did Damien Martyn retire from international cricket?
A. Damien Martyn retired with immediate effect before the third Ashes Test in 2006.
Q. Why is Damien Martyn in the hospital?
A. Damien Martyn is in hospital in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.
Q. Can meningitis cause brain damage?
A. Yes, in serious cases meningitis can cause permanent brain and nerve damage, along with other long-term complications.
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