đ Share this article Retired Aussie Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Medically Induced Coma After Meningitis Diagnosis. The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma following a diagnosis of meningitis. Critical Health Battle 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 recover because itâs extremely grave,â stated Hardie. His condition remains serious after becoming unwell on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, according to family sources. Understanding the Illness The condition meningitis involves inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. An Illustrious Cricket Career Widely regarded as one of Australiaâs finest batsmen, featuring in 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 between 1992 and 2006. His unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final â played with a fractured finger â helped Australia secure victory over India. He announced a shock retirement in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England after struggling in the first couple of Tests. Sporting Community Reacts A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to âstay strongâ online, as the sporting world started sending support. âThoughts and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.â Further updates to follow âŠ