Former Aussie Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Hospitalized and in Induced Coma Following Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosed.

The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.

Serious Health Battle Disclosed

The 54-year-old “is in for the fight of his life”, as stated by ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s condition on Tuesday.

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

Martyn remains in a serious condition after falling ill on Boxing Day and being taken to a hospital in Queensland, as per family sources.

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

Widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest batsmen, featuring in 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs averaging 46.37 between 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.

Martin retired suddenly in the middle of the 2005-06 Ashes series in England following difficulties in the first couple of Tests.

A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “stay strong” online, as the cricket world started sending well wishes.

“Thoughts and prayers sending his way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.”

Further updates to follow …