Parents of Ben Austin reject cricket reforms after his death
Ben Austin, 17, died after being hit in the neck by a cricket ball while practising batting at Ferntree Gully.
Ben Austin died in a freak cricket accident last October after being hit in the neck by a ball while practising at Ferntree Gully. Ben suffered an intracranial haemorrhage and a ruptured artery, and spent two days on life support at Monash Children's Hospital.
At a coronial inquest Friday, his parents Jace and Tracey told the court they do not want the sport changed. "Every day is brutal," Jace said outside court.
Coroner Simon McGregor announced he would not recommend changes to the game. Cricket Australia is undertaking a safety review but will respect the family's wishes.
The court's final report will be delivered in mid-November.
- 17 years old
- Age at death
- Ferntree Gully, last October
- Location and time
Why it mattersThe case shows how family wishes can influence official responses to tragic accidents in recreational sports.
AustraliaA Victorian teenager's death raises questions about cricket safety for young players nationwide, though his family opposes rule changes.
Corroborated by7news.com.au
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