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Cricket mourns loss of Australian batsman Hughes

The world of cricket has paid tribute to Phillip Hughes, the Australian batsman who died at the age of 25 after being struck on the head by a bouncer at Sydney Cricket Ground.

Australia captain Michael Clarke read a statement on behalf of Hughes' family, in which he thanked medical staff and the public for their support.

"We are devastated by the loss of our much loved son and brother Phillip," Clarke said. "It's been a very difficult few days and we appreciate all the support we have received from family, friends, players, Cricket Australia and the general public.

"Cricket was Phillip's life and we as a family share that love of the game with him. We would like to thank all the medical and nursing staff at St Vincent's Hospital and Cricket NSW medical staff for their great efforts with Phillip - we love you."

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland described the incident as a "real-life tragedy" and spoke of the "enormous" loss of the batsman just three days before his 26th birthday.

"The word tragedy gets used far too often in sport but this freak accident is now a real-life tragedy," Sutherland said. ''It's an understatement to say that we are completely devastated. Our grief runs deep and the impact of Phillip's loss is enormous but nothing compares to the loss felt by those closest to him.

''Phillip was a cherished son, brother, friend and team-mate. In these darkest of hours cricket puts its collective arms around the Hughes family. Hughesy, Huey or Hue-Dog - as he was known to many of his mates - was much-loved."

The England team, who are currently touring Sri Lanka for a seven-match one day series, offered condolences to Hughes' relatives and team-mates. Hughes spent time playing in England's County Championship for Hampshire, Middlesex and Worcestershire.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to Phil Hughes' family, friends and teammates at this incredibly sad time," an England statement read. "Phil was admired and respected by all he played with and against and will never be forgotten by the cricket community."

The International Cricket Council also offered its sympathies, with chairman Narayanaswami Srinivasan saying: "We are all shocked and saddened with the news of Phillip's passing. On behalf of the entire cricket community, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his family and friends."

ICC chief executive David Richardson added: "He was a naturally gifted player who entertained many with his attacking approach to the game. All those who play, have played or are in any way connected to the game are devastated by the news. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy at this difficult time."

The second day's play of the third Test between Pakistan and New Zealand in Sharjah has been suspended as a mark of respect to Hughes, with an extra day added to the match which resumes on Friday.

"The whole team is shocked and saddened to hear about the death of Phil Hughes," Pakistan team manager Moin Khan said. "He was here for the Australia limited-overs squad and was very cheerful. He was always ready to talk about cricket."

Mike Hesson, the New Zealand coach, also expressed sadness on behalf of the New Zealand team and said the mood in the dressing room was "sombre".

"Today isn't about cricket, it's about Phil," Hesson said. "Like the rest of the cricketing family, the Blackcaps players and management are devastated to hear about Phil's tragic passing."

Phillip Hughes was hailed as a much-loved son, brother, friend and team-mate © Getty Images

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