Damien Martyn in Critical Condition: Cricket Community Unites in Support
Damien Martyn's Health Crisis
Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn, who represented Australia in 67 Test matches, is currently in a critical state at a hospital in Brisbane, as reported by various Australian news outlets on Wednesday.
The 54-year-old right-handed batsman has reportedly fallen ill recently. According to Nine Newspapers, Martyn has been placed in an induced coma while fighting meningitis.
The cricket community has rallied around him, sending messages of encouragement. Former teammate Darren Lehmann expressed his support on social media, stating: “Lots of love and prayers sending @damienmartyn’s way. Keep strong and fighting, legend. Love to the family.”
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
In a conversation with a media outlet, Adam Gilchrist, a close friend and former Australian wicketkeeper, assured that Martyn is receiving excellent medical care. He mentioned, “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.”
Todd Greenberg, the chief executive of Cricket Australia, also conveyed his hopes for Martyn's swift recovery, stating, “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.”
Martyn, known for his graceful batting style, holds an impressive Test average of 46.37. He made his Test debut at just 21, stepping in for Dean Jones during the 1992–93 home series against the West Indies, and became the captain of Western Australia at the young age of 23.
His highest Test score of 165 was achieved against New Zealand in 2005, contributing to his total of 13 Test centuries. Martyn played his last Test match at the Adelaide Oval during the 2006–07 Ashes series before transitioning to a commentary career.
In One Day Internationals, Martyn participated in 208 matches, with an average of 40.8. He was part of Australia's victorious World Cup teams in 1999 and 2003, notably scoring an unbeaten 88 in the 2003 final against India while nursing a broken finger. He also played a role in the 2006 Champions Trophy-winning squad.