🔗 Share this article Retired Australian Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Induced Coma After Meningitis Diagnosis. The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. Serious Condition Disclosed Martyn, aged 54, “is facing the battle of his life”, according to ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s condition this week. “Let’s hope he can pull through because it’s really serious,” Hardie said. Martyn remains in a serious condition after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, as per family sources. About the Illness The condition meningitis involves inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar 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 – with a broken finger – was instrumental in Australia's win 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 A former teammate Darren Lehmann encouraged Martyn to “stay strong” online, as the cricket world started sending support. “Lots of love and prayers sending your way . Stay strong and fight legend . Love to the family.” Further updates to follow …