The teenage cricketer struck by a ball before a T20 match in Ferntree Gully on Tuesday afternoon has tragically passed away.
Ben Austin was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after a ball hit him in the head during warm-ups before the match between Ferntree Gully and Eildon Park.
The youngster was put on life support but sadly died on Wednesday, his club said in a statement.
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“The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club wishes to advise of the tragic passing of our player, Ben Austin on 29/10/25,” Ferntree Gully Cricket Club said.
“We are absolutely devastated by the passing of Ben, and the impacts of his death will be felt by all in our cricket community.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family — Jace, Tracey, Cooper and Zach, his extended family, his friends and to all of those who knew Ben and the joy that he brought.’
Ben Austin has tragically passed away. Credit: Ferntree Gully Cricket Club
“We ask you to please respect the privacy of Ben’s family during this time.
“Jace and Tracey would like to thank Ambulance Vic, the Police, the Monash Children’s Hospital and those people 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 Ferntree Gully cricket nets where the incident occurred. Credit: Google Maps
Paramedics rushed to the cricket ground at about 4.45pm on Tuesday to treat the school student, who was wearing a helmet when he collapsed in the freak accident.
Mobile intensive care staff and an advanced life support unit treated the boy at the scene before rushing him to hospital.
Teammates and witnesses were left shaken by the incident.
The teenager has played in representative cricket teams and was also a talented junior footballer.
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