Bhubaneswar, Jan. 4 -- Australian cricket has witnessed many unforgettable moments, but few as moving as this. Beyond runs, records and trophies, the game has paused to celebrate something far more important life itself. Former Australia batter Damien Martyn, admired for his grace at the crease and calm under pressure, has produced perhaps the most courageous fight of his career, making a remarkable recovery after being placed in a life-threatening coma while battling meningitis.

The former batter was rushed to a Brisbane hospital on December 26 after falling critically ill, with his condition deteriorating to the point where doctors induced a coma to stabilise him. For days, concern and prayers poured in from across the sporting fratern...