Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Cricket Legend Damien Martyn Wakes From Coma

1/5/2026

40 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Damien Martyn, 54, a former Australian cricketer who played 67 Tests and helped Australia win the 2003 World Cup, is waking from an induced coma after meningitis.
He was hospitalized in Queensland after falling ill on Boxing Day.
Adam Gilchrist, a close friend, reported that Martyn is awake, talking, and in good spirits.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg and many in the cricket community have expressed support.

History

Historical Context

Australia's victory in the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, where they won all 11 matches, marked a peak in their cricketing dominance, following their previous titles in 1999 and 2001. The final, held in Johannesburg, saw Australia score a record 359 runs against India. This triumph solidified Australia's status as the most successful team in World Cup history, with six titles to date.

1 of 2

Story summary

Damien Martyn, 54, a former Australian cricketer who played 67 Tests and helped Australia win the 2003 World Cup, is waking from an induced coma after meningitis.
He was hospitalized in Queensland after falling ill on Boxing Day.
Adam Gilchrist, a close friend, reported that Martyn is awake, talking, and in good spirits.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg and many in the cricket community have expressed support.

1 / 2