New Delhi: Former Australian batter Damien Martyn has been placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. The 54-year-old, who represented Australia in 67 Tests between 1992 and 2006, reportedly fell ill on Friday and was immediately rushed to hospital for urgent care.
Meningitis involves an inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to dangerous brain swelling. According to reports from The Sydney Morning Herald, medical staff hope to bring Martyn out of the coma in the coming days as his condition remains under close observation.
Close friend and former teammate Adam Gilchrist confirmed the situation on behalf of the family, stating that the 2003 World Cup winner is receiving the best of treatment. "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. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg also issued a statement expressing sadness and extending the support of the wider cricket community.
Martyn is celebrated for his elegant batting style and significant contributions to Australian cricket during a golden era. He famously scored an unbeaten 88 with a broken finger in the 2003 World Cup final against India, sharing a decisive partnership with Ricky Ponting.
His Test career included 4,406 runs at an average of 46.37. He was instrumental in Australia's historic 2004 Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory in India, where he was named player of the series after top-scoring in four of the eight innings. Martyn retired suddenly during the 2006-07 Ashes series following Australia's victory at the Adelaide Oval, concluding a career that also featured 208 ODIs and 5,346 runs in the one-day format.
(Inputs from IANS)