Damien Martyn, now 54, was pivotal in Australia's 2003 World Cup victory over India, scoring an unbeaten 88 despite a broken finger to lead the Aussies to a 125-run win.
Damien Martyn, a former Australian cricketer, has reportedly been hospitalized and placed in an induced coma.
Brad Hardie, a former Australian Football League (AFL) player, confirmed Martyn's condition, according to The Guardian.
The 54-year-old "is in for the fight of his life," Hardie told 6PR. "Let's hope he can pull through because it's really serious."
What we understand about Damien Martyn's health
The former cricketer became ill on Boxing Day, December 26, and is still in bad condition. According to the report, he was brought to a Queensland hospital and diagnosed with meningitis.
Meningitis is a dangerous condition characterized by inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It is typically caused by viral infections or bacteria.
With Martyn in a coma, his former teammates hoped for his recovery.
Martyn's old teammate, Darren Lehmann, urged him to "keep strong".
Adam Gilchrist, a former Australian cricketer and close friend, told News Corp that Martyn was receiving the "best of treatment," and that his family was aware of the outpouring of thoughts and wishes for him.
Todd Greenberg, the CEO of Cricket Australia, also wished Martyn a speedy recovery, stating, "I'm sorry to hear about Damien's sickness. Everyone at CA and the greater cricket community sends their warmest regards to him at this time."
Martyn, regarded as one of Australia's most brilliant batsmen, scored a staggering 4,406 runs in just 67 Tests, averaging 46.37 runs between 1992 and 2006.
Martyn was also vital in Australia's 2003 World Cup victory over India, scoring an undefeated 88 despite a fractured finger, to help the Aussies win by 125 runs.
Martyn, an infrequent pacer and excellent fieldsman, particularly in the covers, was named player of the series in the 2004 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, when he helped Australia overcome India on the subcontinent for the first time in over three decades.
The Australian batsman retired in 2006, midway through the Ashes campaign. Martyn briefly worked in cricket commentary after retirement before stepping away from the public eye to pursue a more quiet life.
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