đ Share this article Ex- Australian Cricket Star Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Medically Induced Coma After Meningitis Diagnosis. The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Serious Health Battle Revealed The 54-year-old âis facing the battle of his lifeâ, according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, who disclosed Martynâs health situation this week. âLetâs hope he can recover 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, according to family sources. Understanding 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 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 with a broken 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. Sporting Community Reacts A former teammate Darren Lehmann encouraged Martyn to âstay strongâ online, as the cricket world started sending well wishes. âLots of love and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.â More details soon âŠ