đ Share this article Ex- Australian Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Induced Coma Following Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosed. The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. Critical Health Battle Disclosed Martyn, aged 54, âis in for the fight of his lifeâ, as stated by ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who disclosed Martynâs health situation on Tuesday. âLetâs hope he can pull through because itâs extremely grave,â Hardie said. His condition remains serious after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and transported to a hospital in Queensland, as per family sources. Understanding the Illness The condition meningitis involves swelling of the protective layers that cover the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Playing Career Widely regarded as one of Australiaâs finest batsmen, featuring in 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 from 1992 and 2006. His unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final â with a broken finger â helped Australia secure victory over India. Martin retired suddenly in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England following difficulties in the opening two Tests. Sporting Community Responds A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âkeep strongâ via social media, as the sporting world started sending support. âThoughts and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Love to the family.â Further updates to follow âŚ