'Thoughts With His Family & Friends': Kevin Pietersen Heartbroken By Death Of Teen Cricketer Ben Austin In Melbourne

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen offered his condolences towards the family and friends of a teenage cricketer who died after being hit by a ball on the neck. Ben Austin was hit by a ball during a practice session at Walley Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully, in Melbourne’s southeast, around 4.45 pm local time on Tuesday, October 29.

Taking to X, Pietersen said, "Horrific news of a young 17yr old boy who got struck by a cricket ball in the nets yesterday in Melbourne and sadly passed away. Thoughts with all his family and friends! Cricket family"

How did Ben Austin die?

According to News.com.au report, the talented young player was reportedly warming up in the nets before a match between Ferntree Gully and Eildon Park when the fatal incident occurred. According to ABC new report, Ben was struck in the neck by a ball throwing throwing device.

Despite wearing a helmet, Cricket Victoria confirmed he was not using a neck guard at the time. The Ferntree Gully Cricket Club expressed its deep sorrow in a public statement, describing Ben’s death as a devastating loss that will be felt widely throughout the club and community. They also requested privacy and respect for the family during this difficult time.

In a statement shared on Facebook, the 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. We ask you to please respect the privacy of Ben’s family during this time.”

Ben Austin's family issues statement

Ben’s father, Jace Austin, said the family was heartbroken by the sudden loss of their beloved son, who was also a cherished brother and friend. He shared that Ben had always been passionate about cricket and often spent his time at the nets with friends, doing what he loved most. He said “We are utterly devastated by the passing of our beautiful Ben, who died earlier on Thursday morning.”

He also reflected on his son’s passion for the sport, saying, “This tragedy has taken Ben from us, but we find some comfort that he was doing something he did for so many summers – going down to the nets with mates to play cricket. He loved cricket and it was one of the joys of his

Besides cricket, Ben was also an emerging star in the Victoria Amateur Football Association (VAFA) umpiring scene. As per ABC news report, A GoFundMe has been set up by the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club in conjunction with the Waverley Park Hawks JFC to assist the Austin family.

Published on: Thursday, October 30, 2025, 11:18 AM IST