đ Share this article Former Aussie Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Induced Coma Following Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosed. The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn is in hospital and placed in an induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Serious Health Battle Revealed The 54-year-old âis in for the fight of his lifeâ, according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, who revealed Martynâs health situation this week. âWe 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, according to sources close to the family. Understanding the Illness Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. An Illustrious Cricket Career Widely regarded as one of Australiaâs most talented batters, playing 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 from 1992 and 2006. The right-hand batterâs not out 88 in the 2003 World Cup final â with a broken finger â helped Australia secure victory over India. He announced a shock retirement in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England following difficulties in the opening two Tests. Sporting Community Reacts A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âkeep strongâ via social media, as the sporting world started sending well wishes. âThoughts and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.â More details soon âŠ