A young cricketer, aged 17, has tragically passed away in Australia after being struck in the neck by a ball during a practice session. The incident occurred at Ferntree Gully Cricket Club in Melbourne while Ben Austin was training with his teammates.
Austin was batting in the nets with a helmet on when the accident happened. Despite emergency services being called promptly and the young cricketer being rushed to the hospital in critical condition, he did not survive.
He was placed on life support before succumbing on Thursday. The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club conveyed the heartbreaking news via a social media statement, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Ben and highlighting the profound impact his passing will have on the cricket community.
The family of the deceased, through Ben’s father Jace, also shared a statement honoring Ben’s love for cricket and the joy it brought him. They extended gratitude to those who assisted in the situation and requested privacy during their time of mourning.
Noteworthy figures in the cricketing world, including the family of Phillip Hughes, former England star Kevin Pietersen, and Cricket Victoria chief executive Nick Cummins, expressed condolences and reflected on the devastating loss of a talented player who was admired for his skills and leadership on the field.
The tragic incident has deeply affected the cricketing fraternity in Victoria and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew Ben and admired his passion for the sport.