UPDATE: Community cricketers are laying down their bats in a poignant tribute to 17-year-old Ben Austin, who tragically died after a freak training accident in Ferntree Gully, Melbourne. Ben was struck in the neck by a ball while batting in the nets on October 12, 2023, leading to an overwhelming wave of grief within the sport.
Just two days after the accident, more than $130,000 has been raised from thousands of donors to support Ben’s family as they create lasting tributes in his memory. This outpouring of love highlights the profound impact Ben had on his community and beyond.
In an act of solidarity, all cricket matches in the local Ferntree Gully and District Cricket Association have been postponed this weekend. The local pub will open its doors on Saturday for players, members, and supporters to come together in remembrance.
On Friday, Ben’s family returned to the very club where his passion for cricket flourished. In an emotional moment, they laid down his bat and gloves at the scene of the accident. “We just wanted to be where he last stood, and then the sun came through the clouds. It was beautiful,” said Ben’s father, Jace Austin.
The grief-stricken father recalled how Ben loved all sports and had recently expressed an interest in planes. “To hear Benny’s voice again, I’d do anything. I’d give up everything. I’d swap places with him just to hear his voice again,” Jace added, highlighting the deep sense of loss felt by his family.
Before the Sheffield Shield fixture between Victoria and Tasmania at Junction Oval on October 13, players held a moment of silence in honor of the promising cricketer. Additionally, tributes were observed at the MCG before the men’s T20 International between Australia and India.
Mr. Austin, visibly emotional, held up Ben’s cap bearing the number 512 while stating that their local club president would represent the family at the T20 match. “Benny will be there. He’ll be there. He won’t miss it. The fact that we’re not there, that wouldn’t bother him. He would’ve gone anyway,” he reflected, showcasing the enduring spirit of his son.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in sports. Ben was wearing a helmet during the accident, which involved a “wanger”—a plastic instrument used to sling a ball, according to a friend. This tragedy echoes the sorrowful memory of Test cricketer Phillip Hughes, who lost his life in a similar accident more than a decade ago.
As the community rallies together, the memory of Ben Austin will undoubtedly resonate, inspiring both current and future generations of cricketers. The support and tributes pouring in stand as a testament to his legacy and the unity of the cricketing world in times of tragedy.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the community continues to honor Ben’s legacy.
