Australian Test great Damien Martyn woke up from an induced coma following meningitis, with his ex-teammate Adam Gilchrist calling it “a miracle” on Sunday.
Martyn, 54, who played 67 Tests between 1992 and 2006 and 208 one-day internationals (ODIs), fell seriously ill late last month and was rushed to hospital.
The former batsman was diagnosed with meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
“Events have taken an incredible turn in the last 48 hours,” Gilchrist said.
“He is now able to speak and respond to treatment.
“He has responded extraordinarily well since he came out of the coma, to the point where his family feels like it’s some kind of miracle.”
Martyn is expected to leave intensive care at Gold Coast University Hospital.
Over the past week, big names in cricket have posted messages of support, including former England skipper Michael Vaughan and Indian legends Ravichandran Ashwin and VVS Laxman.
Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousaf was among those who wished Martyn a speedy recovery.
“As a cricketer, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time. I wish you strength, courage and a full recovery. The world of cricket stands with you,” he wrote in a post on X.
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.
