WATCH: Indian and Australian players pay heartfelt tribute to teenager Ben Austin during the AUS vs IND T20I at MCG

A gloomy atmosphere enveloped the Melbourne cricket ground (MCG) before the 2nd T20I between India And Australiawhile players from both teams, along with match officials and MCG staff, wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence in memory of the 17-year-old cricketer Ben Austin.

The tragic death of the young Australian landed earlier in the week after being hit in the neck during training Ferntree Gully cricket club in Melbourne. Despite wearing a helmet, Austin did not wear neck protection, a detail that tragically reflected the loss of Phillip Hughes in 2014. The incident has shocked the cricket community, with tributes from around the world celebrating the teenager’s short but promising career.

AUS vs IND, 2nd T20I: A united tribute to Ben Austin across Australia and beyond

The MCG tribute followed similar acts of respect at other cricket formats. Indian and Australian women’s teams had already paid tribute during the semi-final of the ICC Women’s World Cup in Navi Mumbai on Thursday, wearing black armbands in memory of Austin. On Friday, players from Victoria and Tasmania during the Sheffield Shield matches honored the teenager, pausing for a moment of silence before continuing their match at St Kilda’s Junction Oval.

The tribute was echoed in Perth as players from Western Australia and South Australia also observed a minute’s silence. Flowers and cricket bats were placed outside Ferntree Gully Cricket Club as a memorial to Austin, turning the venue into a moving tribute. The tragedy has led to renewed calls for better safety measures on the field, especially regarding the use of neck protection, as cricketers are reminded of the risks they face regardless of their age or level.

Here’s the video:

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AUS vs IND, 2nd T20I: Emotional trialUte at the MCG as the crowd goes silent for Austin

The MCG crowd went silent on Friday evening as they took part in the emotional tribute to Austin just before the AUS vs IND T20I. The 17-year-old, who tragically died during training on Tuesday, was honored with a moment of silence before the match. Austin’s likeness appeared on the big screen and his baggy blue cap was placed on the turf, making the tribute even more personal.

After the silence, his favorite song was played, with representatives from his clubs, Eildon Park and Ferntree Gully, accompanying the players on the pitch. Austin was due to play for Eildon Park at the time his tribute was held at the MCG, a poignant reminder of what had been lost. The tribute not only honored the teenager’s memory but also underlined the deep bond within the cricket community, which came together to mourn the loss of a bright young talent.

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