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 before retiring in 2006. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed sadness over Martyn's condition and extended the organization’s best wishes for his recovery.
Speaking on behalf of the Martyn family, close friend and former Australian teammate Adam Gilchrist confirmed that Martyn is receiving the best treatment possible. Martyn's family appreciates the outpouring of support and prayers from the community.
According to reports, it is hoped that Martyn may be brought out of his coma in the coming days.
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Close friend Brad Hardie expressed hope for Martyn’s recovery, given the seriousness of his condition.
During his illustrious career, Martyn scored 4,406 Test runs at an average of 46.37 and was also a prolific one-day international batter. He scored an unbeaten 88 runs in the 2003 World Cup final against India while playing with a broken finger.
