đ Share this article Former Aussie Cricket Star Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Induced Coma Following Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosed. 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 Martyn, aged 54, âis facing the battle of his lifeâ, according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, who disclosed Martynâs condition on Tuesday. âWe hope he can pull through because itâs really serious,â Hardie said. His condition remains serious after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and transported to a hospital in Queensland, as per family sources. About Meningitis The condition meningitis involves inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Playing Career Martyn is considered one of Australiaâs most talented batters, featuring in 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 from 1992 and 2006. The right-hand batterâs unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final â played with a fractured finger â was instrumental in Australia's win over India. Martin retired suddenly in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England following difficulties in the first couple of Tests. Cricket World Responds A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âkeep strongâ via social media, as the sporting world began to react support. âThoughts and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.â Further updates to follow âŠ