The Canberra sporting community has been shattered by the tragic death of promising young cricketer Ben Austin, who passed away following a training accident at Harrison Oval in Holt.
The 16-year-old St Francis Xavier College student was participating in a routine training session when he suffered a catastrophic injury that ultimately claimed his life.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Ben Austin was more than just another young sportsman – he was a rising star in the ACT's cricket scene, representing the ACT/NSW Country team at the Under 16 National Championships in Darwin earlier this year. His talent and dedication had marked him as one to watch in Australian cricket circles.
"He was a wonderful young man with a bright future ahead of him," said a family spokesperson, capturing the sentiment of everyone who knew the talented teen.
Community in Mourning
The news has sent shockwaves through Canberra's tight-knit cricket community and beyond. Tributes have poured in from teammates, coaches, and sporting organisations across the capital region.
St Francis Xavier College principal Richard Browne expressed the school community's profound grief, describing Ben as "a much-loved and highly respected member of our college community" whose loss would be deeply felt by students and staff alike.
Investigation Underway
ACT Policing confirmed they're preparing a report for the coroner following the incident that occurred during what should have been a routine training session. While details remain limited, the cricket community has rallied around the Austin family during this unimaginably difficult time.
The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly sporting pursuits can turn to tragedy, leaving a community to mourn a young life filled with promise and potential.
