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

Serious Health Battle Revealed

The 54-year-old “is facing the battle 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,” Hardie said.

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

Understanding the Illness

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

An Illustrious Cricket Career

Widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest batsmen, playing 67 Tests and amassing 4,406 Test runs for an average of 46.37 between 1992 and 2006.

The right-hand batter’s unbeaten 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 following difficulties in the opening two Tests.

Sporting Community Responds

A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “keep 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.”

More details soon …