Tributes pour in for Phillip Hughes, the Australia batsman struck on the head by a bouncer two days ago, after his death is announced.
The 25-year-old died after injuries suffered while batting for South Australia against New South Wales at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday.
Hughes, who was wearing a protective helmet, collapsed face first onto the pitch after being hit by a ball on the back, lower left side of his head from pace bowler Sean Abbott as he attempted a pull shot.
Captain of the Australian cricket team, Michael Clarke represented the family and read a statement before leaving the room immediately.
Flags were flown at half mast at Melbourne Cricket Ground:
The MCG flags are at half mast following news of Phil Hughes’ tragic passing. An unspeakable tragedy. pic.twitter.com/9ngPy9wJE9
— Melbourne Cricket Gd (@MCG) November 27, 2014
In a statement the England team, who are currently in Sri Lanka for a one-day series, said: “Our deepest sympathies go out to Phil Hughes’ family, friends and team-mates at this incredibly sad time.
“Phil was admired and respected by all he played with and against and will never be forgotten by the cricket community.”
Australian team doctor Peter Brukner, who announced the death today, said Hughes had never regained consciousness following his injury.
“He was not in pain before he passed and was surrounded by his family and close friends,” he said.
Fellow cricketers also posted messages of support for Abbott, who was pictured leaving the hospital today.
A very sad day for the world of cricket. So sorry for Phillip Hughes and his family .
Spare a thought for Sean Abbott.
— Ian Botham (@BeefyBotham) November 27, 2014
No words can describe the loss ð??ª Rip pic.twitter.com/3kOm5MkVsc
— Brett Lee (@BrettLee_58) November 27, 2014
Such terrible news with the passing of Phil Hughes. Our deepest sympathies to his family.
— Glenn McGrath (@glennmcgrath11) November 27, 2014
RIP you little champ, we are all going to miss you ! Love, prayers to all the Hughes family xxxx
— Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) November 27, 2014
Absolutely devastated to wake to the news of Phil Hughes’ death. The MCC Flag at Lord’s will be lowered in his memory.
— Lord’s Ground (@HomeOfCricket) November 27, 2014
Woken to the horrific news about Hughesy ! I cannot describe the sadness I feel for the Hughes family & fellow cricket players, so so sad
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) November 27, 2014
Spare a thought for poor Sean Abbott too.He will need all the support possible to help him try & get through this #CricketFamily #CricketAUS
— Alec Stewart (@StewieCricket) November 27, 2014