Former Australia batsman Damien Martyn is showing “positive signs” after being hospitalized in an induced coma with meningitis, his ex-teammate Adam Gilchrist has said.
The 54-year-old, who played 67 Tests between 1992 and 2006 and 208 one-day internationals, fell ill while lying down last week and was rushed to hospital.
He was diagnosed with meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
“Thank you all for your sincere love, wishes and care towards Damien as he goes through a difficult time,” Gilchrist, another Test great, said during a Big Bash League match broadcast on Thursday evening.
“He is still in hospital. More details will be released as they become available, but over the last 24 hours there are some positive signs emerging from the various tests he is taking.”
Many cricketing big names have posted messages of support, including former England skipper Michael Vaughan and Indian legends Ravichandran Ashwin and VVS Laxman.
Known as one of the game’s great shot-makers, Martyn became a key figure in Steve Waugh’s all-powerful Australian side, hitting 13 centuries and an average of 46.37.
He was also part of the Australian team that won the 2003 ODI World Cup, scoring 88 for no out in the final against India in a match-winning partnership with Ricky Ponting.
Martyn retired in 2006 during the Ashes series and has kept a low profile ever since.
