🔗 Share this article Former Australian Cricket Star Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Induced Coma After Meningitis Diagnosis. The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. Critical Condition Disclosed The 54-year-old “is in for the fight of his life”, as stated by former AFL player Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s health situation on Tuesday. “We hope he can recover because it’s really serious,” Hardie said. His condition remains serious after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, as per family sources. About the Illness Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Playing Career Widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest batsmen, featuring in 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs for an average of 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 in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England after struggling in the opening two Tests. Sporting Community Responds A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “keep strong” via social media, as the sporting world started sending support. “Thoughts and prayers sending your way . Stay strong and fight legend . Love to the family.” More details soon …