🔗 Share this article Ex- Australian Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Induced Coma Following Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosis. The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn is in hospital and placed in an induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Serious Condition Disclosed The 54-year-old “is facing the battle of his life”, according to ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who disclosed Martyn’s condition this week. “Let’s hope he can pull through because it’s really serious,” stated Hardie. Martyn remains in a serious condition after falling ill on Boxing Day and transported to a hospital in Queensland, as per family sources. Understanding the Illness The condition meningitis involves inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Cricket Career Widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest batsmen, playing 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 from 1992 and 2006. The right-hand batter’s unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final – with a broken finger – helped Australia secure victory over India. Martin retired suddenly in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England after struggling in the first couple of Tests. Sporting Community Reacts A former teammate Darren Lehmann encouraged Martyn to “keep strong” online, as the sporting world began to react support. “Lots of love and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.” Further updates to follow …