Former Australian Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Induced Coma Following Meningitis Diagnosed.

The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn is in hospital and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.

Serious Health Battle Disclosed

Martyn, aged 54, “is facing the battle of his life”, according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s condition this week.

“We hope he can pull through because it’s really serious,” Hardie said.

His condition remains serious after falling ill on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, according to sources close to the family.

The condition meningitis involves swelling of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord.

Martyn is considered one of Australia’s finest batsmen, playing 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 from 1992 and 2006.

The right-hand batter’s unbeaten 88 in the 2003 World Cup final – played with a fractured finger – helped Australia secure victory over India.

He announced a shock retirement in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England following difficulties in the first couple of Tests.

Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann encouraged Martyn to “keep strong” online, as the cricket world began to react well wishes.

“Lots of love and prayers sending your way . Stay strong and fight legend . Love to the family.”

More details soon …