Damien Martyn showing positive signs as meningitis treatment continues

Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn is showing "encouraging signs" as he continues treatment for meningitis in a Queensland hospital, according to longtime teammate Adam Gilchrist.

Martyn was hospitalised earlier this week after being diagnosed with meningitis and was placed in an induced coma. He played 67 Tests, 208 one-day internationals and four T20s for Australia across a distinguished international career.

Speaking during Fox Cricket's broadcast of Thursday night's Big Bash League match between the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers, Gilchrist said recent medical tests had delivered cautiously positive news.

"He's still in hospital, and there will be more updates as they come to hand, but certainly over the last 24 hours there have been some positive signs coming from the tests he's undergoing," Gilchrist said.

Gilchrist, who played alongside Martyn at under-17, state and international level, described him as a close friend and said Martyn's family - including his partner Amanda - had been deeply touched by the outpouring of support from across the cricketing world.

"Thank you everyone for the heartfelt love, wishes and care for Damien as he goes through a challenging time," Gilchrist said. "He's a great friend, a fine player and a terrific fella."

Gilchrist also reflected on Martyn's career, suggesting his achievements may not always be fully appreciated by Australian fans, largely because much of his finest work came overseas.

Nine of Martyn's 13 Test centuries were scored away from home, often in demanding conditions and at times when matches were being played overnight in Australia.

"A lot of his best cricket was done overseas, out of your comfort zone, which is often the toughest challenge," Gilchrist said.
"The respect opposition teams have for him - for his talent and his quality - really says it all. Sometimes the Australian audience might not fully appreciate Marto because a lot of his work happened while people back home were asleep."