UPDATE: Ferntree Gully Cricket Club is honoring 17-year-old Ben Austin with a heartfelt tribute following his tragic death in a cricketing accident. Local matches commenced today with a moment of silence as part of the inaugural Ben Austin Memorial Round, emphasizing the profound impact of his loss on the community.
In a deeply moving ceremony, all senior teams named Ben as the 12th man, ensuring his spirit will be felt throughout the matches. Just two weeks prior, Ben suffered a fatal injury when he was struck by a cricket ball while warming up. Despite wearing a helmet, he was not protected by a neck guard at the time. After being treated on-site, he was rushed to Monash Medical Centre in critical condition and placed on life support. Tragically, he passed away the following day, with his death confirmed on October 30, 2023.
The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club released a statement expressing their devastation:
“We are absolutely devastated by the passing of Ben, and the impacts of his death will be felt by all in our cricket community. We ask you to please respect the privacy of Ben’s family during this time.”
Wet weather postponed tributes scheduled for last weekend, but the club remains hopeful for better conditions as they prepare for tomorrow’s memorial games. On social media, Ferntree Gully Cricket Club stated, “Teams are in for tomorrow’s Ben Austin Memorial one-day games – hoping for lovely weather like today!”
In light of this tragedy, Cricket Victoria cancelled matches statewide as the cricketing community mourns. Chief Executive Nick Cummins expressed sorrow, stating,
“It is heartbreaking to see a young life cut so short, while Ben was doing something that he loved so much.”
Cricket Victoria has pledged support for the Austin family and local clubs affected by this devastating incident.
The loss of Ben Austin resonates deeply, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures in sports. As the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club and the broader cricket community commemorate his legacy, the focus remains on honoring a young life tragically lost in the pursuit of a sport he loved.
As further developments arise, the cricket community stands united in remembrance of Ben, ensuring his spirit continues to inspire those who take the field.
