Former Australian batsman Damien Martyn revealed he faced a 50/50 chance of surviving meningitis that forced doctors to place him in an induced coma for eight days. The 54‑year‑old, who retired in 2006 after 67 Tests, woke last week, left Gold Coast University Hospital, and posted a beach photo thanking supporters.

Martyn recounted the December 27 onset, describing how paramedics from Mermaid Waters Ambulance rushed him to the hospital. Within four days of emerging from the coma, he managed to walk and speak, astonishing the medical team. His recovery underscores the rapid danger of meningitis, an infection that can kill within hours if untreated.

Beyond the health scare, Martyn’s career highlights include four Ashes series, two World Cup titles and a famed unbeaten 88 in the 2003 final despite a broken finger. His brief stint with Yorkshire in 2003 adds an overseas chapter. Fans now watch his rehabilitation, hoping he returns to cricket commentary or mentorship.