The family of former Australian batter Damien Martyn released their first public statement about the 54-year-old’s recovery after he was hospitalised on Boxing Day and placed in an induced coma from a battle with meningitis, stating that he was “progressing well”.
Martyn’s wife, Amanda, released the statement via NewsCorp, saying that these were tough times for the family and thanked the Gold Coast University Hospital for their support.
“Damien is progressing well with his medical treatment. We also want to express our deepest appreciation to the medical team at Gold Coast University Hospital, who have been nothing short of amazing throughout this challenging time. This has been a trying time, and the family ask that you respect their privacy,” the statement said.
The statement comes a few days after Martyn’s former teammate and close friend, Adam Gilchrist, had informed that there were “positive signs” in his recovery.
“Thank you, everyone, for the heartfelt love and wishes and care for Damien as he goes through a challenging time. He’s still in hospital. 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. There’s been so much interest and love for Damien. A fine player, terrific fella. I just hope he can continue his recovery,” the former wicketkeeper-batter had said on FOX Cricket, on behalf of Martyn’s family.
Martyn played 67 Tests for Australia since making his debut against the West Indies at Brisbane in 1992. He made 4406 runs at an average of 46.37 and was an integral part of the side, which won a series in India after 35 years in 2004.
He was also part of teams that lifted the ODI World Cup in 1999 and 2003. Martyn announced a shock retirement from all forms of international cricket after playing the second Test of the 2006-07 Ashes series against England at the Adelaide Oval.
