đ Share this article Ex- Aussie Cricket Star Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Medically Induced Coma Following Meningitis Diagnosed. The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Serious Health Battle 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 recover because itâs extremely grave,â Hardie said. Martyn remains in a serious condition after falling ill on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, according to sources close to the family. Understanding Meningitis The condition meningitis involves inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. A Stellar Cricket Career Martyn is considered one of Australiaâs most talented batters, featuring in 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs averaging 46.37 between 1992 and 2006. His not out 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 after struggling in the first couple of Tests. Cricket World Reacts Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âstay strongâ online, as the sporting world began to react support. âLots of love and prayers sending your way . Stay strong and fight legend . Sending love to the family.â More details soon âŠ