Former Australian batter Damien Martyn is battling meningitis after being admitted to Brisbane Hospital, where he has been placed in an induced coma while doctors continue his treatment. The 54-year-old fell seriously ill around Boxing Day, sparking an outpouring of support from the global cricket community.
“I am saddened to learn of Damien’s illness. The best wishes from everyone at Cricket Australia and the wider cricket community are with him at this time,” said the CEO of the governing body, Todd Greenberg, in his official statement.
Damien Martyn treatment update: Doctors treat infections affecting the brain and spinal cord
Meningitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. According to people familiar with the matter, Martyn was admitted after his condition rapidly deteriorated, leading medical staff to place him in an induced coma to stabilize his body and aid his recovery.
While no detailed medical timeline has been shared publicly, Cricket Australia stressed that Martyn is in capable hands and the family has requested confidentiality while treatment continues.
Ravichandran Ashwin and Darren Lehmann lead messages of support
Off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was among the first personalities to post a get-well message for Damien Martyn. “The thoughts are with
@damienmartyn. Prayers to see him bounce back,” he wrote about X.
Thoughts are with @damienmartyn
Prayers to see him bounce back🙏
-Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) December 31, 2025
Former Australian teammate Darren Lehmann also shared an emotional note, writing: “Lots of love and prayers sending Martyn. Keep the legend strong and fighting. Love to the family.” The message echoed the sentiments of many in the famous Australian dressing room of the early 2000s.
Lots of love and prayers @damienmartyn path . Keep the legend strong and fighting. Love to the family xxx 🙏 ❤️
– Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) December 30, 2025
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“Sending strength and prayers to my dear friend @damienmartyn
and his family. I wish him a speedy and complete recovery. The entire cricketing world stands with you, Matto, during this difficult time,” former India international VVS Laxman captioned his post.
I send strength and prayers to my dear friend @damienmartyn and his family. I wish him a speedy and complete recovery. The whole cricket world is with you Matto during this difficult time🤗🤗
–VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) December 31, 2025
“All our thoughts are with you @damienmartyn,” tweeted cricketer-turned-commentator Michael Vaughan.
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