17-year-old Ben Austin cricketer dies after being struck in the neck during training in Melbourne

Australian cricket is in mourning following the heartbreaking death of 17-year-old cricketer Ben Austin, who tragically lost his life after being struck in the neck during a training session in Melbourne.

The fatal incident occurred at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club on Tuesday evening, where Ben was hit by a ball while facing bowlers in the nets. Although he was wearing a helmet, reports confirm that he was not using a neck guard.

Moments after impact, the young cricketer collapsed and was immediately rushed to Monash Children’s Hospital in critical condition. Despite doctors’ efforts, Ben Austin passed away early Thursday morning.

The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club expressed grief in an official statement, stating, “We are absolutely heartbroken by Ben’s passing. The entire cricket community feels this loss deeply. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Ben’s parents, Jace and Tracey Austin, shared an emotional message through Cricket Victoria, saying, “We are utterly devastated by the loss of our beautiful Ben. He was an adored son, a loving brother, and a bright light in all our lives. While this tragedy has shattered us, we take comfort knowing he was doing what he loved most — playing cricket with his mates.”

The family also extended empathy toward the teammate who bowled the fatal delivery, acknowledging that “this tragedy has impacted two young men.”

The tragedy has drawn somber comparisons to the 2014 death of Australian batsman Phillip Hughes, who was struck in a similar way during a Sheffield Shield match. Experts believe Ben Austin’s death could reignite conversations about mandatory neck guards in cricket at all levels.

Cricket Australia, local clubs, and fellow players have since shared messages of condolence and solidarity, uniting in grief for a young life cut tragically short.

Ben Austin’s death serves as a painful reminder of the risks in sport — and the importance of continued efforts to ensure player safety on and off the field.