Damien Martyn is in hospital after falling ill on Boxing Day. Damien Martyn is in hospital after falling ill on Boxing Day. Credit: AAP

Australian cricket great Damien Martyn is in a “fight of his life” after falling ill on Boxing Day.

The 54-year-old reportedly went to lie down after feeling sick before being rushed to hospital.

Martyn, who played 67 Tests and over 200 ODIs, has since been placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

Adam Gilchrist confirmed his former Test and Western Australia teammate’s hospitalisation in a statement on behalf of the Martyn family.

“He is getting the best of treatment and (Martyn’s partner) Amanda and his family know that a lot of people are sending their prayers and best wishes,” Gilchrist said.

Chief executive Todd Greenberg wished Martyn a quick recovery on behalf of Cricket Australia.

“I’m saddened to hear of Damien’s illness. The best wishes of everyone at CA and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time,” said Greenberg.

Former teammate Darren Lehmann was among the many to rally around Martyn.

Former AFL star Brad Hardie first revealed the concerning news on his radio show late on Tuesday night.

“Damien Martyn, the champ from WA, fantastic batsman … unfortunately took ill on Boxing Day and currently is residing in a Queensland hospital and he is in for the fight of his life,” Hardie said on 6PR.

“I’d like everybody to certainly have their best wishes and positive thoughts for Marto. God give him strength.

“Let’s hope he can pull through because it’s really serious.”

Martyn enjoyed a brilliant career throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.

He was a constant feature in both formats of the game and delighted fans with his brilliant shot-making.

His high score of 165 came against New Zealand in 2005, one of 13 Test centuries Martyn made in the baggy green.

Martyn also averaged just over 40 from 208 ODIs, including a high score of 144 not out.

He was a key player in the 1999 and 2003 World Cup triumphs.

Since retiring from the national side in 2006, Martyn briefly went into commentary, but has largely stayed out of the public eye.

Originally published on 7NEWS Sport