đ Share this article Former Aussie Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Induced Coma Following Meningitis Diagnosis. The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Critical Condition Disclosed The 54-year-old âis facing the battle of his lifeâ, as stated by ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who revealed Martynâs condition this week. âWe hope he can recover because itâs extremely grave,â Hardie said. Martyn remains in a serious condition after falling ill on Boxing Day and transported to a hospital in Queensland, as per sources close to the family. About Meningitis Meningitis is swelling of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Playing Career Widely regarded as one of Australiaâs finest batsmen, featuring in 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 â played with a fractured 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 first couple of Tests. Cricket World Responds Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âstay strongâ online, as the cricket world started sending well wishes. âThoughts and prayers sending his way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Love to the family.â Further updates to follow âŠ