đ Share this article Retired Australian Cricket Star Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Induced Coma After Meningitis Diagnosis. The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn has been admitted to hospital and put into a medically induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Serious Condition Disclosed Martyn, aged 54, âis facing the battle of his lifeâ, according to ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who disclosed Martynâs condition this week. âWe hope he can pull through because itâs really serious,â stated Hardie. His condition remains serious after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, as per sources close to the family. Understanding the Illness The condition meningitis involves swelling of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Playing Career Widely regarded as one of Australiaâs most talented batters, featuring in 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs for an average of 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 helped Australia secure victory over India. Martin retired suddenly during the 2005-06 Ashes series in England following difficulties in the first couple of Tests. Sporting Community Responds Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âstay strongâ online, as the sporting world began to react support. âLots of love and prayers sending his way . Stay strong and fight legend . Sending love to the family.â More details soon âŚ