🔗 Share this article Former Australian Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Medically Induced Coma Following Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosis. The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and placed in an induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Serious Health Battle Revealed Martyn, aged 54, “is facing the battle of his life”, according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s condition on Tuesday. “We hope he can recover because it’s extremely grave,” stated Hardie. Martyn remains in a serious condition after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, as per sources close to the family. Understanding Meningitis Meningitis is swelling of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Cricket Career Widely regarded as 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. He announced a shock retirement during the 2005-06 Ashes series in England after struggling in the opening two Tests. Cricket World Responds A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “stay strong” via social media, as the cricket world began to react support. “Lots of love and prayers sending his way . Stay strong and fight legend . Love to the family.” More details soon …