A tragic event has shocked the Australian cricket community following the death of a 17-year-old cricketer, Ben Austin, who was struck in the neck by a ball during a practice session in Melbourne. The incident occurred at Ferntree Gully on Tuesday when Ben was using a practice device known as a “wanger.” Although he was wearing a helmet, he did not have a neck guard on.
Emergency services quickly responded, providing advanced life support before taking him to the Monash Medical Centre in critical condition. Sadly, despite their efforts, Ben was placed on life support and passed away on Thursday, leaving his family and the local cricket community heartbroken.
Ben’s family is devastated by the loss of their “beautiful Ben.” His father, Jace Austin, shared the family’s grief, and Cricket Victoria expressed its condolences, stating that the entire cricket community is mourning the young player’s untimely death. Tributes have flooded in from friends, teammates, and local clubs, highlighting the impact he had on those around him.
A devoted player for the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club, Ben also represented Mulgrave and Eildon Park cricket clubs. His club expressed its sorrow, stating that his passing would resonate throughout the cricket community. The club has requested privacy for Ben’s family during this challenging time.
Ben was also actively involved in representative cricket for the Ferntree Gully and District Cricket Association. Its president, Arnie Walters, remembered him as a talented and well-loved player, calling his loss a significant blow to the community. Walters promised that support would be available for clubs and families affected by this tragedy.
Details reveal that Ben collapsed immediately after being hit. Michael Finn, president of the Ringwood and District Cricket Association, noted that medical assistance was offered on the scene until paramedics arrived. Cricket Victoria is providing additional support for those impacted.
Nick Cummins, the CEO of Cricket Victoria, recalled a similar incident involving cricketer Phil Hughes a decade ago, lamenting how the cricket community is grieving this loss. He remarked on the heartbreak of losing a young life while doing something he loved.
In a statement from his family, they described Ben as a cherished son and brother, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support. Jace Austin reflected on his son’s passion for cricket, sharing that it brought some comfort amidst their sorrow. They also acknowledged the young teammate who bowled the ball, extending thoughts and support to him and his family as well.
Tributes for Ben extended beyond the cricket field. The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club encouraged the community to honor him with the gesture of “putting their bats out for Benny,” a nod to a similar tribute for Phillip Hughes. The Waverley Park Hawks Junior Football Club, where Ben played over 100 games, remembered him as a kind and respectful young man, acknowledging the profound loss felt throughout the community.
This unfortunate incident has left a lasting mark on friends, family, and the local sports community, reminding everyone of the fragility of life.
