In Melbourne, Australia, 17-year-old cricketer Ben Austin tragically passed away after being struck by a cricket ball during practice. According to the BBC, the incident occurred on Tuesday at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club when a ball hit Austin on the neck while he was facing a sidearm bowler, also known as a “wanger.” Although Austin was wearing a helmet, he was not using a neck guard at the time.
AFP reports that Austin had gone to the nets for some batting practice before participating in a T20 match in Melbourne. He was struck on the shoulder by a ball delivered from the bowler. He was rushed to hospital in critical condition, but despite medical efforts, the promising young cricketer passed away.
The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club issued a statement expressing deep grief, saying, “We are devastated by Ben’s passing. His loss will have a profound impact on the entire cricket community.” Arnie Walters, president of the Ferntree Gully and District Cricket Association, said, “Ben was talented at local cricket and beloved by everyone. We understand the depth of sorrow this news brings to our community.”
The club also extended condolences to Ben’s family, friends, and acquaintances on social media while requesting privacy for the family. They expressed gratitude on behalf of the family to Ambulance Victoria, the police, and hospital staff.
Ben’s father, Jess Austin, said in a statement, “We are completely shattered after losing our beautiful Ben, who passed away on Thursday morning. This tragic event has taken him from us. There is some comfort in knowing that Ben was doing exactly what he had done in countless summers before—playing cricket in the nets with his friends. We also want to extend our support to the teammate who was bowling at the time. This accident has deeply affected two young people, and our thoughts are with them and their families.”
In 2014, Australian national team batsman Phillip Hughes died after being struck on the neck by a ball during a Sheffield Shield match. His death prompted significant improvements in player safety equipment. Hughes’ passing cast a shadow of mourning over Australian and world cricket, leading to major changes in protective gear and concussion protocols to prevent head and neck injuries.