A heartbreaking Australian cricketer tragedy has shocked the sporting community after 17-year-old Ben Austin died from a training accident in Melbourne. The young player was struck on the neck by a ball during a practice session on Tuesday and succumbed to his injuries two days later.
The incident occurred at Ferntree Gully, in Melbourne’s outer east, where Austin was facing deliveries thrown by a sidearm. Despite being rushed to hospital in critical condition and placed on life support, he passed away on Thursday morning.
Reports confirm that Austin was wearing a helmet, but without a stem guard — a protective extension designed to shield the back of the head and neck.
Family and Community in Mourning
In a deeply emotional statement, Ben’s father, Jacer Austin, expressed the family’s devastation.
“We are utterly devastated by the passing of our beautiful Ben,” he said. “He was an adored son, a loving brother to Cooper and Zach, and a shining light in our lives.”
Jacer added that Ben’s passion for cricket was one of his greatest joys, saying, “He died doing what he loved — going to the nets with mates to play cricket.”
He also extended compassion to his son’s teammate who was bowling at the time, acknowledging that “this accident has impacted two young men.”
Tributes and Reflections from Cricket Authorities
Cricket Australia (CA) and Cricket Victoria have both expressed deep sorrow, pledging support to Ben’s family and teammates. CA Chair Mike Baird said the tragic news had shaken the nation.
“The tragic circumstances of Ben and Ferntree Gully are going to be felt across the country,” Baird stated. “Cricket is a sport that unites communities, and this loss has affected us all.”
He added that the organization is providing full support to everyone involved, while also emphasizing the need to “learn from this tragedy.”
Echoes of Phil Hughes’ Death
This Australian cricketer tragedy draws painful parallels to the 2014 death of Phil Hughes, who was fatally struck on the neck by a ball during a match in Sydney. His death prompted changes in cricket safety standards, including the introduction of the stem guard — the very equipment missing from Ben Austin’s helmet.
Ben’s death has reignited discussions about improving youth cricket safety and reinforcing the importance of protective gear.
The cricketing world continues to mourn the loss of a promising young player whose love for the game inspired those around him.
In other news also read about Veteran Bowler Ahmer Khan Dies Suddenly After Domestic Match In UP
