The former Australian Test cricketer Damien Martyn is in hospital and placed in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis.
The 54-year-old “is facing the battle of his life”, according to ex-AFL star Brad Hardie, who revealed Martyn’s condition this week.
“We hope he can recover because it’s really serious,” stated Hardie.
His condition remains serious after falling ill on Boxing Day and transported to a hospital in Queensland, as per sources close to the family.
Meningitis is swelling of the protective layers that cover the brain and spinal cord.
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 – 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 after struggling in the opening two Tests.
A former teammate Darren Lehmann urged Martyn to “stay strong” via social media, as the cricket world started sending support.
“Thoughts and prayers sending his way . Keep strong and fighting legend . Love to the family.”
More details soon …