Damien Martyn in 2006. Photo: AP

Cricket Australia confirmed that the 54-year-old sportsman, who played 67 Test matches between 1992 and 2006 and won two World Cups, became unwell on Boxing Day and is being treated in a Brisbane hospital.

"I'm saddened to hear of Damien's illness. The best wishes of everyone at Cricket Australia and in the wider cricket community are with him at this time," Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg said in a statement.

His friend and former teammate Adam Gilchrist added: "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."

Former Australian Football League (AFL) star Brad Hardie, speaking on his radio show with Perth's 6PR station, told listeners that Martyn was receiving treatment at a Queensland hospital.

He said: "I'd like everybody to have their best wishes and positive thoughts for Marto. Let's hope he can pull through, because it's really serious."

Darren Lehmann, the Northamptonshire head coach and former teammate of Martyn, sent "lots of love and prayers" via X.

He added: "Keep strong and fighting legend. Love to the family xxx."

Martyn, who represented Yorkshire as an overseas player in 2003, posted on X on Christmas Eve looking ahead to the fourth Ashes Test in Melbourne.

He wrote: "If the old brigade could play again then this would be it. Boxing Day Test match. What a cauldron."