MELBOURNE: A young Australian cricketer tragically passed away after being struck on the neck by a ball during a practice session.
According to Australian media, 17-year-old Ben Austen sustained a serious injury earlier this week while training in Melbourne’s east.
The incident occurred when a ball hit him on the neck, after which he was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Doctors later confirmed his death.
Cricket Victoria stated that the ball, delivered through a bowling machine, struck Austen on the neck. He was wearing a helmet but did not have a stem guard attached.
Nick Cummins, Head of Cricket Victoria, said the incident was eerily similar to the one that claimed the life of Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes 11 years ago.
Cricket Australia, the club management, and Ben Austen’s family have all expressed profound grief over the tragic incident.
