đ Share this article Former Aussie Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Induced Coma Following 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 Condition Revealed The 54-year-old âis in for the fight of his lifeâ, according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, who revealed Martynâs condition on Tuesday. âWe hope he can pull through because itâs extremely grave,â Hardie said. Martyn remains in a serious condition after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, as per sources close to the family. About the Illness Meningitis is swelling of the protective layers that surround 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 for an average of 46.37 from 1992 and 2006. His not out 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 after struggling in the opening two Tests. Cricket World Responds Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âkeep strongâ online, as the sporting world started sending well wishes. âLots of love and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.â Further updates to follow âŠ