Damien Martyn: Ex-Australia batter wakes up from coma in ‘miracle’ recovery

Gilchrist, a former goalkeeper, said Martyn’s condition was “so positive” that medical staff were hopeful he could leave intensive care, which showed “what a fantastic recovery it was and how quickly the situation turned around”.

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can appear suddenly and can kill within a few hours if not treated quickly.

Gilchrist and Martyn’s family also thanked staff at Gold Coast University Hospital “who have performed exceptionally well during this challenging time”.

“He will remain in hospital and continue to receive treatment, but the return has been miraculous.”

The statement continued to say that Martyn “is in good spirits and has been overwhelmed by the support,” while his wife, Amanda, added that the “feeling of love, goodwill and concern” from his supporters has helped him recover.

Martyn, who made his Test debut at the age of 21, played in four Ashes series and scored 4,406 Test runs at an average of 46.37 during his career.

He won two World Cups with Australia and retired before the Third Test of the 2006–07 series.

In the 2003 World Cup final, Martyn, injured with a broken finger, made an unbeaten 88 in Australia’s win over India.

Martyn was also a prolific one-day international batsman, scoring 5,346 runs in 208 matches at an average of 40, including five hundreds and 37 fifties.

He also represented Yorkshire as an overseas player in 2003.