Former Australian batter Damien Martyn has woken up from a coma in his ongoing treatment for meningitis. He was admitted to a Brisbane hospital in a serious condition on 26 December. The 54-year-old was placed in an induced coma.

Martyn’s wife Amanda mentioned that the former player was making progress and responding to medical treatment. He has come out of coma and the legendary cricketer will be moved out of the ICU. Martyn’s friend and former wicket-keeper, Adam Gilchrist, opened up on his miraculous recovery.

“He is talking and responding to treatment. His condition has improved in the last 48 hours. He has come out of coma and his family is calling it a miracle. He will be moved out of the ICU to another part of the medical facility. Things have changed dramatically,” Adam Gilchrist told Code Sports.

Gilchrist thanked fans and the cricketing fraternity for their support.

“He is in good condition and is wife wants to thank everyone for their support and prayers. They feel blessed to have so many people willing to help him. He will remain in hospital for further treatment,” he added.

Former India players VVS Laxman and Ravichandran Ashwin were among the cricketers, who send their prayers. Former Australia teammate Darren Lehmann and broadcaster Jim Wilson also supported Martyn.

Martyn made his debut during a Test match against the West Indies in 1992, amassing 36 and 15. He represented Australia in 67 Tests and 208 ODIs. The right-handed batter dominated the rivals for years and a part of Australia’s World Cup-winning teams in 1999 and 2003.

He was also Australia’s leading run-getter in their 2006 Champions Trophy success having accumulated 241 runs from five innings, including two half-centuries. Martyn also played a key role in Australia’s historic 2-1 Test series victory in India, posting 444 runs.