Australian Cricket Mourns Sudden Death of Former Star Ben Cameron, 44, Who Fought Brave Cancer Battle After Career-Cutting Knee Injuries
- Ben Cameron, a former South Australian cricket player, has died at the age of 44, leaving the sporting community in shock.
- Cameron made 19 top-level appearances for the Redbacks before his career was cut short by four knee operations, leading to the discovery of a cancerous cyst in 2013.
- The Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) has paid tribute to Cameron, describing him as a “significant contributor” to the sport, and offering support to his family and members.
Australian cricket is reeling from the sudden death of former South Australian player Ben Cameron, who passed away at the age of 44. Cameron’s death has sent shockwaves through the sporting community, with tributes pouring in from former teammates, coaches, and officials.
Cameron made 19 top-level appearances for the Redbacks between 2004 and 2007, but his promising career was cut short by a series of devastating knee injuries. He underwent four knee operations, which ultimately led to the discovery of a cancerous cyst in 2013. Despite his health battles, Cameron remained a passionate advocate for the sport, working as a coach and talent specialist for the South Australia Cricket Association (SACA) from 2012 to 2022.
“The South Australia Cricket Association is deeply saddened by the passing of former South Australian player and SACA staff member Ben Cameron,” the SACA said in a statement. “Ben continued his love for South Australian cricket after his playing days, working within SACA… More recently, he served as a selector for our state teams, playing a significant role in helping our men’s side achieve the historic domestic double last season.”
Australian Cricketers’ Association chief executive Paul Marsh described Cameron as a “significant contributor” to the sport, and offered support to his family and members. “We express our condolences to his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult and sad time,” Marsh said. “We are devastated, and will offer our support to Ben’s family and our members during this time.”
Former teammate Darren Lehmann, whose association with Cameron continued through his son Jake’s career with SA, mourned the loss on social media. “Our thoughts with Ben and family xxx,” he wrote.
Cameron’s bravery in the face of adversity was recognised by the ACA in 2015, when the union contributed to his surgery and rehab costs. In an interview at the time, Cameron revealed the extent of his health struggles, saying: “The cyst developed in one of my knees that I have arthritis in, and the pain became so unbearable that I had it checked, and that’s when they discovered the cyst.”
The cricket community has rallied around Cameron’s family, with flags flying at half-mast at Adelaide Oval for the remainder of the Sheffield Shield match against Queensland.