AUSTRALIAN test batsman Phillip Hughes has died aged 25, two days after being hit on the head by a delivery during a domestic match in Sydney.
Tributes for Hughes have been pouring in from the cricketing fraternity from around the world. Australia captain Michael Clarke, read out a brief statement on behalf of Hughes’ parents Greg and Virginia, and siblings Jason and Megan Hughes.
“We’re devastated by loss of our much-loved son and brother Phillip,” Clarke read.
“It’s been very a difficult few days and we appreciate all the support we have received from family, friends, players, Cricket Australia and the general public.”
Hughes was struck on the head while batting for South Australia during a Sheffield Shield game at the SCG on Tuesday, and underwent emergency surgery shortly after being rushed to St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney.
He had since been in an induced coma at the hospital’s intensive care unit.
Hughes made 26 test and 25 one-day international appearances for Australia and made his test debut against South Africa in February 2009.
Former Northwood School pupil Shaun Pollock took to Twitter to express his sadness and pay tribute to Hughes. His message was followed by the Sunfoil Dolphins, AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn, Graeme Smith, Alviro Petersen and David Miller and a number of other SA cricketers.
