The Australian cricket community is mourning the tragic death of 17-year-old cricketer Ben Austin, who passed away after being struck in the neck by a ball during a training session at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club in Melbourne.
According to Cricket Victoria (CV), the young player was batting in the nets on Tuesday when he was accidentally hit by a ball delivered by a teammate using a hand-held throwing device known as a wanger. Despite being rushed to the hospital and placed on life support, Austin succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday.
A Tragic Reminder of Phil Hughes’ Accident
Cricket Victoria’s Head of Cricket, Nick Cummins, told local media that the accident was eerily similar to the 2014 incident that claimed the life of Australian cricketer Phil Hughes. Hughes, who was 25 at the time, died after being struck in the neck by a short-pitched ball during a domestic match in Sydney.
Like Hughes, Austin was wearing a helmet but not a neck protector, also known as a stem guard. These clip-on attachments were made mandatory in elite-level Australian cricket only in late 2023, aimed at preventing such fatal injuries.
Club and Family Express Devastation
In a heartfelt statement, Ben Austin’s family expressed their grief and compassion for everyone affected by the tragedy.
“This tragedy has taken Ben from us, but we find some comfort that he was doing something he loved — going down to the nets with mates to play cricket,” the family said.
“We would also like to support his teammate who was bowling in the nets. This accident has impacted two young men, and our thoughts are with him and his family as well.”
The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club and Cricket Victoria have both extended condolences. And are providing support to players and staff deeply affected by the incident.
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The devastating loss of Ben Austin has reignited discussions around safety in cricket training environments. While wangers are commonly used to simulate fast bowling and reduce strain on coaches. Experts are now urging clubs to reinforce safety measures even during informal sessions.
Austin’s passing is a painful reminder of the risks involved in the sport. Ad has prompted renewed calls for stricter safety standards across all levels of cricket.
