Australian cricket has been struck by tragedy after 17-year-old Ben Austin lost his life following a freak training accident at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club in Melbourne.
Austin was reportedly hit on the neck by a delivery from a wanger, a handheld ball-throwing device, while practising in the nets. Although he was wearing a helmet, he was not using a neck guard. Emergency responders arrived quickly and he was rushed to hospital and placed on life support, but he sadly did not survive.
The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club confirmed the devastating news, expressing heartbreak and urging the cricket community to “place their bats outside” in Austin’s memory — a gesture reminiscent of the tribute paid to Phil Hughes in 2014.
“We are absolutely devastated by Ben’s passing,” the club said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family — Jace, Tracey, Cooper, and Zach — and all who knew the joy Ben brought to our community.”
Austin’s father, Jace Austin, described his son as an “adored son, deeply loved brother, and shining light”, adding that the family took solace knowing he died doing what he loved — “going down to the nets with mates to play cricket.”
Messages of grief and solidarity have poured in from across the cricketing world.
Former England captain Kevin Pietersen wrote on X, “Horrific news of a young 17-year-old boy struck by a ball in the nets. Thoughts with all his family and friends.”
Cricket Australia expressed its condolences, posting, “Vale Ben Austin. We are devastated at the passing of 17-year-old Melbourne cricketer Ben Austin following an accident while batting in the nets.”
Cricket Victoria CEO Nick Cummins noted the heartbreaking similarity to the Phil Hughes accident a decade ago, saying, “It’s devastating to see such a young life cut short while doing something he loved so deeply.”
As a mark of respect, players in the ongoing Sheffield Shield round wore black armbands to honour Ben Austin’s memory — a touching tribute to a young cricketer whose passion for the game will never be forgotten.
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