đ Share this article Retired Australian Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Medically Induced Coma After Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosis. The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn has been admitted to hospital and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. Critical Condition Disclosed The 54-year-old âis in for the fight of his lifeâ, according to ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who disclosed Martynâs health situation on Tuesday. âWe hope he can pull through because itâs really serious,â stated Hardie. 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 the Illness Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Cricket Career Martyn is considered one of Australiaâs most talented batters, playing 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 between 1992 and 2006. The right-hand batterâs 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 opening two Tests. Cricket World Responds A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âkeep strongâ via social media, as the cricket world began to react well wishes. âThoughts and prayers sending your way . Stay strong and fight legend . Sending love to the family.â Further updates to follow âŠ