The cricketing world is rallying behind former Australian batsman Damien Martyn, who has been placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.
Serious Condition After Boxing Day Illness
Martyn, aged 54, was taken to a hospital in Queensland after falling ill on Boxing Day. Sources close to his family confirm he was subsequently diagnosed with meningitis, a serious infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. His condition is described as serious.
The news has shocked the sporting community, coming just days after Martyn had been active on social media expressing his excitement for the ongoing Ashes Test series on Christmas Eve.
Cricket Community Rallies with Support
Former teammates and cricket officials have been quick to offer messages of support. Ex-AFL player Brad Hardie, speaking on radio station 6PR, stated that Martyn "is in for the fight of his life."
Adam Gilchrist, a former Test and Western Australia teammate, issued a statement on behalf of the Martyn family. "He is getting the best of treatment and [Martyn’s partner] Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes," Gilchrist said.
Darren Lehmann urged his former colleague to "keep strong" online, while Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed his sadness, adding: "The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time."
A Talented but Unsung Career
Martyn, who made his Test debut at just 21 against the West Indies in 1992, is widely regarded as one of Australia's most gifted batters. He played 67 Tests, scoring 4,406 runs at an impressive average of 46.37.
His career highlights include being player of the series during Australia's 2004 series win in India, where he top-scored in four innings. He also played a crucial, unbeaten innings of 88 with a broken finger in the 2003 World Cup final to help secure victory over India.
His retirement during the 2006-07 Ashes series was sudden, with Martyn stating the team needed players who were "more than 100% committed." Despite this, his captain Ricky Ponting praised him as "one of the world's most unsung players."
The cricket world now waits and hopes for positive news regarding his health.
