Australian Cricket Legend Damien Martyn in Induced Coma After Meningitis Diagnosis

SYDNEY: Former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn has been hospitalized and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis, according to international media reports.

The 54-year-old former batsman was rushed to hospital on Boxing Day after his health deteriorated. Doctors decided to place him in an induced coma due to the seriousness of his condition. Meningitis is a dangerous illness that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord and can be life-threatening.

Martyn represented Australia between 1992 and 2006, playing 67 Test matches and 208 One Day Internationals. Former Australian wicketkeeper and close friend Adam Gilchrist confirmed that Martyn is receiving the best possible medical care and said that his family is aware of the prayers and well-wishes being sent from around the world.

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Former Australian head coach Darren Lehmann also shared his support on social media, expressing hope and solidarity with Martyn and his family during this difficult time.

Damien Martyn is regarded as one of Australia’s finest stroke-makers. He scored 13 Test centuries and maintained an average of over 46 in Test cricket. He was a key member of Australia’s victorious 2003 World Cup squad, famously playing an unbeaten innings of 88 runs in the final against India.

Following his retirement during the 2006 Ashes series, Martyn largely stayed away from cricket and media engagements.