Ball took life of teenage Aussie cricketer

An Australian teenager has died after a cricket ball hit him during a practice session in Melbourne.

Ben Austin, 17, was training in cricket nets in Ferntree Gully on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, when he was struck in the head or neck by a ball. It's believed he was wearing a helmet.

Emergency workers were called to the scene shortly, and the boy was rushed to Monash Children's Hospital in critical condition.

Austin was put on life support but died on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club said it was "absolutely devastated by the tragic passing of one of its players, and the teenager's death will be felt by all in our cricket community".

Ferntree Gully and District Cricket Association president Arnie Walters said Ben was "both talented and popular in local cricket".

"I know how heavily this news will land across our community, and we will provide any support we can to our clubs and cricket family," Gully said.

In a social media post, Ben's cricket club extended their condolences to his family and friends and "to all of 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," the post said.

On behalf of the teenager's family, the cricket club also thanked Ambulance Victoria, the police and hospital staff for their prompt response.

Waverley Park Hawks Junior Football Club, for which Ben played more than 100 games, said, “he was kind, respectful and a fantastic footballer".

"Our club and community have lost a truly great young person who was developing into a fine young adult, and his loss will be felt keenly by our club for many years to come," said the Football club.