Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn fighting for life in Gold Coast hospital

The cricket world has been left in shock with former Australian great Damien Martyn fighting for his life in an induced coma in a Queensland hospital after contracting meningitis.

The 54-year-old fell ill on Boxing Day, with fellow former Test cricketer and close friend Adam Gilchrist confirming on behalf of the family that Martyn has been receiving treatment for the potentially deadly illness.

“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.

Meningitis is a severe inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, requiring urgent medical care, but doctors are reportedly hopeful the former Test and One Day star batter can make a recovery.

“Damien Martyn remains in a serious condition at the Gold Coast University Hospital,” a spokesperson for Gold Coast Health said on Wednesday.

Former State and Australian teammate Justin Langer led the well-wishes from cricket and sporting communities, revealing he’s been left “devastated” by the news.

“I was devastated when I heard about Marto’s condition,” the former opener told The Nightly.

“We are all hopeful he recovers soon and are buoyed by the fact he is in the best hands.

“We have been friends since we were little kids playing cricket, and my thoughts are with his partner Amanda, son Ryder, parents Gayle and Dick and twin sisters, Melissa and Vanessa.”

Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann, who played alongside Martyn in the early 2000s, also shared a message of support.

“Lots of love and prayers … keep strong and fighting, legend. Love to the family,” he wrote on X.

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said the organisation’s support was behind Martyn.

“I’m saddened to hear of Damien’s illness. The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time,” Greenberg said in a statement.

Martyn played 67 Test matches for his country, amassing 4406 runs at 46.37, including 13 centuries, before retiring suddenly during Australia’s whitewash of England in the 2006/07 Ashes.

The classy right-handed was one of the most exciting white-ball batters of his era as well, cracking 5346 runs with five centuries across 208 outings for Australia.

Martyn also made a famous 88 not out in the triumphant 2003 World Cup final against India, despite batting with a broken finger.

Martyn was a stalwart of West Australian cricket, growing up in the state, and, aside from a brief stint in the media, has spent much of his retirement living quietly with his family on the Gold Coast.

Former Australian Test cricketer Rodney Hogg joined the well-wishers, saying, “We wish him all the best. That’s shocking news.”

While ex-Western Australia teammate Ryan Campbell said he was praying for his mate to pull through.

“Sending lots of love & best wishes to @damienmartyn …..Thinking of you & your family buddy,” he wrote on social media.

English greats have also came out in support of Martyn, with Michael Vaughan taking to X to write: “All our thoughts are with you”.