Former Australia cricketer Damien Martyn has been placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. The 54-year-old reportedly fell ill on Friday and is being treated in a hospital in Queensland.
Martyn played 67 Test matches for Australia between 1992 and 2006, featured in four Ashes series, and won two World Cups. He retired suddenly during the 2006 Ashes series.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said he was saddened by the news and sent best wishes from the cricket community. Former teammate Adam Gilchrist confirmed Martyn is receiving the best possible care, adding that his family are aware of the strong support being shown.
Reports suggest doctors hope to bring Martyn out of the coma in the coming days. Former players and coaches, including Darren Lehmann, have shared messages of support.
During his career, Martyn scored over 4,400 Test runs and more than 5,300 runs in one-day internationals, and was known for playing a key role in Australia’s 2003 World Cup final win despite a broken finger.
