Emergency services were dispatched to Wally Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully, located in Melbourne’s outer-east, shortly before 5 p.m. yesterday.

Reports indicate that a 17-year-old cricket player sustained injuries to his head and neck after being struck by a ball during a pre-match warm-up for a scheduled Twenty20 game.

Paramedics, including those specialized in Advanced Life Support (ALS), promptly attended to the teenager on-site.

The young player was then urgently transported to Monash Medical Centre in Clayton, where he remains in critical condition.

His family is currently by his side at the hospital, maintaining a vigil during this difficult time.

Flowers were left by the nets following the incident.

The teenager is believed to be a promising young cricket player who has won several awards at Ferntree Gully Cricket Club.

Ringwood and District Cricket Association chair Michael Finn said he was aware of the incident and that his thoughts are with the player and his family.

Cricket Australia and Cricket Victoria have been contacted for comment.