The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn has been admitted to hospital and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.
The 54-year-old “is in for the fight of his life”, according to the former AFL player Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s condition on Tuesday.
“Let’s hope he can pull through because it’s really serious,” Hardie said on 6PR.
Martyn remains in a serious condition after falling ill on Boxing Day and being taken to hospital in Queensland where he was diagnosed with meningitis, according to sources close to the family.
Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.
Former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “keep strong” via X, as the cricket world began to react to the news.
Lots of love and prayers sending @damienmartyn way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Love to the family xxx 🙏 ❤️
— Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) December 30, 2025
Adam Gilchrist confirmed his former Test and Western Australia teammate was in hospital in 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.
Cricket Australia boss, Todd Greenberg, also wished Martyn a quick recovery.
“I’m saddened to hear of Damien’s illness,” he said. “The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time.”
Damien Martyn plays a sweep shot on his way to an unbeaten 101 for Australia against England in 2003. Photograph: Leigh Winburn/EPA
Martyn is considered one of Australia’s most talented batters, playing 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 between 1992 and 2006.
The right-hand batter’s unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final – with a broken finger – helped Australia secure victory over India.
Martin retired suddenly in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England after struggling in the opening two Tests.
