Melbourne: The cricketing world is once again in mourning after the tragic death of 17-year-old cricketer Ben Austin, who lost his life following a freak accident during a training session in Melbourne. The incident, eerily reminiscent of the death of Phil Hughes over a decade ago, has sent shockwaves through the sporting community.
According to reports, Ben was struck on the neck by a delivery while training in the nets at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club, where he was a member. The teenager was reportedly wearing a helmet but without a neck guard when he was hit by a ball delivered using a “Wanger”, a handheld device used by coaches to provide throwdowns.
The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club confirmed the devastating news, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of one of their promising young players.
Painful Reminder of Phil Hughes’ Tragic Death
Ben’s death has stirred painful memories of Phil Hughes, the former Australian international batter who died in November 2014 after being struck near the ear by a bouncer from Sean Abbott during a Sheffield Shield match. Hughes was just 25 years old at the time.
In a deeply moving message, the Hughes family extended their heartfelt condolences to the Austins, recognizing the unbearable pain they are now enduring — a pain the Hugheses know all too well.
“We would like to send our deepest condolences to the Austin family for the loss of their adored son and brother, Ben. Our thoughts are with you, the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club and the greater cricket community as we think of Ben and his love of cricket,” the Hughes family said in a statement.
“We send our warmest sympathies as you navigate through this time, as we know all too well… and hope your cherished memories of Ben comfort you.”
Family’s Heartbreaking Tribute
Ben’s father, Jace Austin, shared a touching message remembering his son’s passion for the sport.
“For Tracey and I, Ben was an adored son, deeply loved brother to Cooper and Zach, and a shining light in the lives of our family and friends.
This tragedy has taken Ben from us, but we find some comfort that he was doing something he did for so many summers — going down to the nets with mates to play cricket. He loved cricket, and it was one of the joys of his life,” he said, as quoted by Wisden.
Cricket Australia’s Tribute
Cricket Australia also expressed its sorrow on social media, saying,
“Vale Ben Austin. Cricket Australia is devastated at the passing of 17-year-old Melbourne cricketer Ben Austin following an accident while batting in the nets on Tuesday night.”
Messages of condolence and support have poured in from across the cricketing world, with fans, players, and clubs mourning the young cricketer’s untimely death and offering strength to his grieving family.
The incident has reignited discussions within the cricket community about player safety, particularly regarding protective gear such as neck guards, which were made more common after Hughes’ fatal accident.