A young cricketer has died after suffering catastrophic injuries during a pre-game net session.

Specialist paramedics were called to the Wally Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully at 4.45pm on Tuesday 28 October after the teenager was struck in the neck by a ball.

Sadly, the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club confirmed on Thursday 30 October the death of beloved player Ben Austin.

“We are absolutely devastated by the passing of Ben, and the impacts of his death will be felt by all in our cricket community,” the club said in a statement.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family – Jace, Tracey, Cooper and Zach, his extended family, his friends and to all of those who knew Ben and the joy that he brought.”

Ringwood and District Cricket Association president Michael Finn told AAP the teenager was

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