🔗 Share this article

The ex-Aussie cricket star Damien Martyn is in hospital and put into a medically induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.

Critical Health Battle Disclosed

The 54-year-old “is in for the fight of his life”, according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s condition on Tuesday.

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

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

About Meningitis

Meningitis is swelling of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord.

An Illustrious Cricket Career

Martyn is considered one of Australia’s finest batsmen, playing 67 Tests and scoring 4,406 Test runs averaging 46.37 between 1992 and 2006.

His not out 88 in the 2003 World Cup final – with a broken finger – 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 Responds

Ex-colleague Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “stay strong” via social media, as the cricket world started sending well wishes.

“Thoughts and prayers sending his way . Stay strong and fight legend . Love to the family.”

Further updates to follow …