Parents of teen cricketer who died reveal their heartbreak

Ben Austin, 17, died after being struck in the neck by a cricket ball during training in October; his parents say they do not blame anyone and have supported the teammate who delivered the ball.

Ben Austin was struck in the neck by a cricket ball during a training session at Wally Tew Reserve in Melbourne in October and died after being taken to hospital. His parents, Tracey and Jace Austin, have spoken about the moment they realised he had been fatally injured and about returning to the nets where he last stood. They say the death was a tragic accident and that they do not blame anyone. The family has remained in contact with and supported the 15-year-old who delivered the ball. Known details: - Ben Austin was 17 and was injured during a nets training session in October before being taken to hospital and later dying. - The ball had been delivered by a teammate using a training device often called a cricket thrower. - Ben’s parents say they view the incident as a tragic accident and have offered support to the teenager involved. - The family have kept Ben’s memory present in their home and returned to the nets to place his cricket gear where he last stood. Summary: The Austins describe ongoing grief and a conscious decision not to assign blame, and they continue to support the young teammate who sent down the ball. Undetermined at this time.