The cricketing world has been shaken by the sudden death of teenage star Ben Austin, who passed away after being hit by a ball during batting practice. The 21-year-old was struck while training in the nets ahead of a scheduled game, leading to an emergency hospital admission where he was placed on life support. Tragically, he was pronounced dead on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
Ferntree Gully Cricket Club announced Austin’s passing through social media, expressing deep condolences to his family and friends while requesting privacy for the grieving household. The club highlighted the impact Ben had on teammates and the broader cricket community, praising the joy and energy he brought to the sport.
Ben’s father, Jace Austin, described his son as a cherished member of the family—a beloved brother to Cooper and Zach, and a source of light for friends and relatives. He shared that while the loss is devastating, the family takes some solace in knowing Ben was engaged in something he loved, enjoying cricket alongside his teammates.
The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club also acknowledged the efforts of emergency services, including Ambulance Victoria, the police, and Monash Children’s Hospital staff, who attended to Ben during the critical moments following the incident. The club assured that further information regarding the circumstances would be shared as it became available.
Ben Austin’s untimely death has left a void in both his family and the cricket community, marking the loss of a young talent whose passion for the sport was evident to all who knew him.
