Damien Martyn, Ex-Australian Cricketer, Induced A Coma and Diagnosed With Meningitis, Adam Gilchrist Shares Update

The cricketing world has been shaken by news of Damien Martyn’s sudden health crisis. The 54-year-old former Australian batter was rushed to Gold Coast University Hospital after falling ill on Boxing Day (December 26, 2025). His condition was initially described as "serious," and he was placed in a medically induced coma to help his body fight a severe bout of meningitis.

Martyn, a two-time World Cup winner known for his elegant stroke-play, has spent the last week in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). His teammate, Adam Gilchrist, flags positive test signs. Partner Amanda and family by his side as the cricket world floods prayers for the elegant middle-order maestro.

Adam Gilchrist Shares "Positive Signs" in Recovery

Adam Gilchrist has provided an update on behalf of Damien Martyn's family, after the champion Australian batsman was placed in an induced coma due to serious illness. pic.twitter.com/grnuQkh5px

— Kayo Sports (@kayosports) December 31, 2025

Providing a much-needed ray of hope, Damien Martyn's close friend and former teammate Adam Gilchrist shared a comforting update on January 1, 2026. Speaking during a Big Bash League broadcast on Fox Cricket, Gilchrist revealed that recent medical tests have shown encouraging progress.

"He’s still in hospital," Gilchrist noted. "There’ll be more details coming out as they come to hand, but certainly in the last 24 hours, some positive signs are the indications coming out of the various tests he’s having."

Gilchrist also passed on a message of gratitude from Martyn’s partner, Amanda, and his family. They have been overwhelmed by the "heartfelt love and wishes" pouring in from fans and fellow cricketers, including greats like VVS Laxman and Ravichandran Ashwin.

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Understanding Meningitis and the Induced Coma

Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) that surround your brain and spinal cord. In severe cases, the brain can swell significantly (cerebral oedema). 

A study highlights that patients who receive prompt intravenous antibiotics and corticosteroids have a significantly higher chance of a full neurological recovery. The research notes that "supportive care in an ICU setting, including the use of protective ventilation and sedation, is critical in managing the secondary brain injury caused by inflammation.

Doctors use a medically induced coma to "shut down" non-essential brain activity. This reduces the brain's need for oxygen and helps manage intracranial pressure. If not treated rapidly, the infection can lead to permanent neurological damage, hearing loss, or life-threatening complications. Symptoms to watch for are high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, sensitivity to light, and confusion.

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Conclusion

Damien Martyn's current battle is a reminder of how quickly a health crisis can strike, even for elite athletes. While he remains under close medical supervision in Queensland, the "positive indications" mentioned by Adam Gilchrist offer great comfort to his family and fans. The coming days will be crucial as doctors monitor his response to treatment and look for the right moment to bring him out of sedation.