đ Share this article Retired Aussie Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Induced Coma Following Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosed. The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. Serious Condition Disclosed The 54-year-old âis in for the fight of his lifeâ, according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, who revealed Martynâs health situation this week. âLetâs hope he can recover because itâs really serious,â stated Hardie. Martyn remains in a serious condition after falling ill on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, as per family sources. About Meningitis Meningitis is swelling of the protective layers that cover the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Cricket Career Martyn is considered one of Australiaâs most talented batters, playing 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs averaging 46.37 between 1992 and 2006. The right-hand batterâs unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final â with a broken finger â was instrumental in Australia's win over India. Martin retired suddenly during the 2005-06 Ashes series in England after struggling in the first couple of Tests. Sporting Community Reacts Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âstay strongâ online, as the sporting world began to react well wishes. âLots of love and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Love to the family.â More details soon âŠ