🔗 Share this article Retired Aussie Cricket Star Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Medically Induced Coma After Meningitis Diagnosed. The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn has been admitted to hospital and put into a medically induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. Serious Condition Revealed Martyn, aged 54, “is in for the fight of his life”, as stated by former AFL player 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, according to family sources. About the Illness The condition meningitis involves swelling of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. An Illustrious Cricket Career Martyn is considered one of Australia’s finest batsmen, playing 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs averaging 46.37 between 1992 and 2006. His not out 88 in the 2003 World Cup final – played with a fractured finger – helped Australia secure victory over India. Martin retired suddenly in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England following difficulties in the first couple of Tests. Sporting Community Responds Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “stay strong” via social media, as the sporting world began to react well wishes. “Lots of love and prayers sending your way . Stay strong and fight legend . Love to the family.” Further updates to follow …