🔗 Share this article Retired Aussie Cricket Star Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Induced Coma After Meningitis Diagnosed. The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. Serious Health Battle Revealed The 54-year-old “is facing the battle of his life”, according to ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s health situation on Tuesday. “Let’s hope he can pull through because it’s really serious,” stated Hardie. Martyn remains in a serious condition after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and transported to a hospital in Queensland, according to family sources. Understanding the Illness The condition meningitis involves swelling of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. An Illustrious Playing Career Widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest batsmen, playing 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs averaging 46.37 from 1992 and 2006. His not out 88 in the 2003 World Cup final – played with a fractured finger – was instrumental in Australia's win over India. He announced a shock retirement during the 2005-06 Ashes series in England after struggling in the first couple of Tests. Cricket World Reacts Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “stay strong” via social media, as the cricket world started sending support. “Thoughts and prayers sending his way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.” More details soon …