đ Share this article Ex- Australian Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Induced Coma Following Meningitis Diagnosed. The former Australian Test cricketer 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, âis in for the fight of his lifeâ, as stated by ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who revealed Martynâs health situation this week. âWe hope he can pull through because itâs really serious,â stated Hardie. His condition remains serious after falling ill on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, according to sources close to the family. About Meningitis The condition meningitis involves swelling of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. An Illustrious Playing 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 was instrumental in Australia's win over India. Martin retired suddenly in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England after struggling in the first couple of Tests. Cricket World Reacts A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âkeep strongâ via social media, as the sporting world began to react well wishes. âLots of love and prayers sending his way . Stay strong and fight legend . Sending love to the family.â More details soon âŠ