The former batter of the Australian side, Damien Martyn, has been in Queensland hospital suffering from meningitis. The 54-year-old was taken ill on Boxing Day (December 26), with the news being emerged on December 30 evening of his condition. The batter is currently in an induced coma.

Australia’s Martyn has smashed 4406 runs in 109 innings of the longest format at an average of 46.37 and a strike rate of 51.41 with the help of 13 centuries and 23 half-centuries at the best score of 165. In the case of the 182 innings of the ODIs, the top-order batter nailed 5346 runs at an average of 40.80 and a strike rate of 77.73, thanks to five centuries and 37 half-centuries at the best score of undefeated 144 runs. 

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“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.” The former wicket-keeper batter and the left-handed opening batter of the Australia side, Adam Gilchrist, spoke on behalf of Martyn’s family.

Damien Martyn hospitalized with meningitis

Martyn was one of the great stroke-makers of the game. He was recalled in 2000 after a six-year gap and became a key figure in Steve Waugh’s all-powerful side before he decided to announce his retirement in 2006, midway through that year’s Ashes series, by finishing his Test career with 4406runs with 13 centuries at 46.37.

Martyn was part of the Australia side that won the 2003 ODI World Cup, by smashing a fine knock of unbeaten 88 runs in the final against India, where he clubbed 234 with Ricky Ponting in a sensational partnership at the Wanderers in Johannesburg. He briefly kept working in commentary after his playing days before keeping a low profile.

Martyn, on Christmas Eve, posted on the Boxing Day Test between England and Australia, which ended in two days with the top order writing, “If the old brigade could play again, then this would be it. Boxing Day Test match. What a cauldron.” He wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).