The teenage cricketer struck by a ball before a T20 match in Ferntree Gully on Tuesday afternoon has tragically passed away.

Ben Austin was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after a ball hit him in the head during warm-ups before the match between Ferntree Gully and Eildon Park.

The youngster was put on life support but sadly died on Wednesday, his club said in a statement.

“The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club wishes to advise of the tragic passing of our player, Ben Austin on 29/10/25,” Ferntree Gully Cricket Club said.

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

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family — Jace, Tracey, Cooper and Zach, his extended family, his friends and to all of those

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