đ Share this article Ex- Aussie Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Medically Induced Coma Following Meningitis Diagnosed. The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Serious Condition Revealed The 54-year-old âis facing the battle of his lifeâ, as stated by ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who revealed Martynâs condition on Tuesday. âLetâs hope he can pull through because itâs extremely grave,â stated Hardie. His condition remains serious after falling ill on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, as per family sources. Understanding Meningitis The condition meningitis involves inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. An Illustrious Cricket Career Martyn is considered one of Australiaâs most talented batters, featuring in 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs averaging 46.37 between 1992 and 2006. The right-hand batterâs unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final â played with a fractured finger â helped Australia secure victory over India. Martin retired suddenly during the 2005-06 Ashes series in England following difficulties in the first couple of Tests. Sporting Community Reacts A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âkeep strongâ online, as the cricket world began to react well wishes. âThoughts and prayers sending your way . Stay strong and fight legend . Sending love to the family.â More details soon âŚ