A 17-year-old cricket player tragically passed away in Australia after being struck in the neck by a ball during a practice session. Ben Austin was training with his teammates at Ferntree Gully Cricket Club in Melbourne when the fatal incident occurred.

Austin, who was wearing a helmet while batting in the nets, was immediately attended to by emergency services and transported to the hospital in critical condition. Despite efforts, he did not survive.

The teenager was placed on life support before succumbing on Thursday. The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club shared the heartbreaking news via a social media statement, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Ben and the impact it has on the cricket community.

Ben’s father, Jace, also issued a statement on behalf of the family, emphasizing Ben’s love for cricket and the joy it brought him. Jace extended support to the bowler involved in the accident, acknowledging the emotional toll on both young men and their families.

The family of Phillip Hughes, an Australian Test cricketer who tragically died in a similar incident in 2014, conveyed their condolences to the Austin family, recognizing Ben’s passion for cricket and offering solace during this difficult time.

Messages of sympathy poured in from former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen and Cricket Victoria chief executive Nick Cummins, expressing deep sadness and mourning the loss of a talented player and beloved teammate. The cricketing community, locally and nationally, grieves the untimely passing of Ben, underscoring the profound impact of his love for the sport.

Overall, the cricketing world mourns the loss of a promising young athlete, reflecting on the cherished memories of Ben’s passion for the game.