Teenage cricket star, Ben Austin has tragically passed away after being struck by a ball while practicing his batting in the nets before a game.
Reports indicate that the 21-year-old was rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment and placed on life support, but was confirmed dead on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club announced his passing in a statement on social media, extending condolences to the bereaved family and urging the public to respect the privacy of the family during this difficult time.
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“The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club sadly wishes to advise of the tragic passing of our player, Ben Austin, on 29/10/25. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family – Jace, Tracey, Cooper & Zach, his extended family, his friends, and all those who knew Ben and the joy that he brought.
“We ask you to please respect the privacy of Ben’s family during this time. Jace & Tracey would like to thank Ambulance Vic, the Police, the Monash Children’s Hospital, and those who assisted on Tuesday. Further details will be shared as they become known, and we will advise of these through our usual process. We ask for your continued support in this time of grieving. May Ben rest in peace,” the statement read.
Ben’s father, Jace, also shared a heartfelt message on behalf of the Austin family.
“For Tracey and me, Ben was an adored son, a 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 in knowing he was doing something he loved 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 reported by The Sun Sport.
SB/JE
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