10/30/2025
🕊️ Rest in Peace, Ben Austin 🏏
Today, the cricket world stands still.
Seventeen-year-old Ben Austin, a bright young cricketer from Melbourne, tragically lost his life after being struck in the neck by a cricket ball during a net session. Despite wearing a helmet, he wasn’t using a neck guard — a small piece of protection that could have made a difference.
This is not just a message — take it seriously.
Cricket is a game of passion and precision, but no match, no practice, no delivery is worth more than a life.
To every young player — listen to your coaches, respect your parents, and never take safety lightly.
To every coach and club — keep teaching not just skills, but discipline, awareness, and protection.
To every parent — remind your child, every single time, that safety gear saves lives.
A neck guard. A helmet. One simple choice can mean a lifetime more of cricket, joy, and dreams.
Our deepest condolences to Ben’s family, teammates, and the Ferntree Gully cricket community.
Your light will never fade, Ben. You’ll forever remind us that life is fragile, precious, and worth protecting — every single moment.
🏏💛 Rest in Peace, Ben Austin (2008–2025)
Let’s honor him by playing safe, loving deeply, and living fully.
This is not just a reminder — it’s a responsibility.
