Ex-Australian batter Damien Martyn in induced coma with meningitis

Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn has been admitted to a Queensland hospital after being diagnosed with meningitis, a serious infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

For the unversed, Meningitis is triggered by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and can lead to high fever, severe headache, vomiting, neck stiffness, and seizures. Notably, the former batter was taken ill on Boxing Day, and he is currently in an induced coma.

"Lots of love and prayers sending @damienmartyn way. Keep strong and fighting legend. Love to the family xxx," Darren Lehmann posted on X (formerly Twitter).

"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,” Martyn’s close friend Adam Gilchrist said on NewsCorp.

“All our thoughts are with you @damienmartyn,” former England captain Michael Vaughan wrote on X.

Ahead of the recently concluded Boxing Day Ashes 2025-26 Test, Martyn had posted about the fourth Test between Australia and England. "If the old brigade could play again, then this would be it. Boxing Day Test match. What a cauldron," he wrote on X.

Speaking about his career number, Martyn played 67 Tests for Australia from 1992 to 2006. He retired in 2006, ending his Test career with 4406 runs at 46.37, including 13 centuries. Notably, he was also part of the Australian team that won the 2003 ODI World Cup, hitting 88 not out in the final against India, where he added 234 with Ricky Ponting.

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