A heartbreaking incident has taken the life of 17-year-old Ben Austin, an Australian cricketer, who tragically passed away after being struck on the neck by a ball during a practice session in Melbourne East earlier this week.

According to reports, Austin was immediately rushed to the hospital in critical condition after the accident. Despite the prompt medical attention, doctors confirmed his death shortly after his arrival.

Cricket Victoria confirmed that the accident occurred when a ball, fired from a bowling machine, hit Austin on the neck. Although Austin was wearing a helmet, he was not wearing a neck guard — a protective piece of equipment that could have potentially prevented the fatal injury.

Nick Cummins, Head of Cricket Victoria, expressed his condolences, drawing a parallel between Austin’s accident and the tragic death of Phillip Hughes 11 years ago, when Hughes was similarly struck on the neck by a bouncer.

The entire cricket community is in mourning, with Cricket Australia, local clubs, and Austin’s family all expressing their deep sorrow at the loss of such a young and promising talent. The incident has once again highlighted the importance of neck protection in cricket, with many reflecting on the risks involved in the sport.