Why Are Players at the MCG Wearing Black Armbands for Ben Austin?
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Synopsis
In a heartfelt tribute, players at the MCG wear black armbands to honor 17-year-old cricketer Ben Austin, who tragically lost his life during training. Join us as we reflect on this somber moment in cricket history and the impact it has on the sporting community.
Key Takeaways
- Players from Australia and India wore black armbands in tribute to Ben Austin.
- A moment of silence was observed before the match.
- Ben Austin's tragic death highlights the risks involved in sports.
- The cricket community came together to honor a young talent.
- Memorials were held across different regions, showcasing solidarity.
Melbourne, Oct 31 (NationPress) Both Australia and India players, along with match officials and staff at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), are donning black armbands to honor the memory of 17-year-old cricketer Ben Austin, who tragically passed away after being struck by a ball on the neck during a training session. Prior to the commencement of the game, players from both teams observed a moment of silence.
Ben Austin succumbed to his injuries sustained while using a ball-throwing device during a nets practice at Wally Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully Cricket Club before a scheduled local T20 match. Despite being rushed to the hospital in grave condition, he unfortunately did not survive at Monash Children's Hospital.
According to a statement from Cricket Australia on Friday, the tribute will take place about 15 minutes before play begins. Both teams will line up with match officials and representatives from Ben’s cricket clubs, Cricket Victoria, and Cricket Australia on the field for a moment of silence. Ben’s image will be displayed on the big screen, and his favorite song will be played following the tribute. All players, match officials, and the MCG staff will wear black armbands.
Earlier, during the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup semi-final at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, players from both teams also sported black armbands.
On the same day, the Victoria and Tasmania teams placed their bats out and wore black armbands while observing a minute of silence, displaying Austin's image on the big screen before continuing their Sheffield Shield match at St Kilda's Junction Oval in Melbourne.
Similar tributes were witnessed in Perth during the match between Western Australia and South Australia. Flowers and cricket bats were laid outside the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club, the site of the incident involving Austin.
This tragic event brings back memories of Phillip Hughes, an Australian batter who lost his life in 2014 after a cricket ball struck his neck during a Sheffield Shield match in Sydney.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of recognizing the human side of sports. The tragic loss of Ben Austin highlights the inherent risks in athletics, reminding us of our shared humanity. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the cricket community as they navigate this profound loss.
NationPress
18/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Ben Austin?
Ben Austin tragically died after being struck in the neck by a cricket ball during training.
Which teams are honoring Ben Austin?
Players from Australia and India are wearing black armbands in his memory.
Where did the incident occur?
The incident occurred at Wally Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully Cricket Club.
What tribute was organized at the MCG?
A moment of silence was observed, and Ben's image was displayed on the big screen.
Have similar tributes been held in the past?
Yes, similar tributes were held for other cricketers, including Phillip Hughes.
