Ex- Australian Test Cricketer Damien Martyn Admitted to Hospital and in Medically Induced Coma After 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 Condition Disclosed

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

“We hope he can recover because it’s extremely grave,” Hardie said.

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 inflammation of the membranes 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 – was instrumental in Australia's win over India.

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

A former teammate Darren Lehmann encouraged Martyn to “keep strong” online, as the sporting world started sending support.

“Lots of love and prayers sending your way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Sending love to the family.”

Further updates to follow …