Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes has died after suffering a severe head injury during a Sydney cricket match.Cricket Australia said: “We are extremely sad to announce that Phillip Hughes has passed away at the age of 25.
“Our thoughts go out to Phillip’s family, friends, and the entire cricket community on this incredibly sad day.”
Australian team doctor Peter Brukner issued a statement confirming that the cricketer passed away in hospital.
“It is my sad duty to inform you that a short time ago Phillip Hughes passed away,” Mr Brukner said.
“He never regained consciousness following his injury on Tuesday.
“He was not in pain before he passed and was surrounded by his family and close friends.
“As a cricket community we mourn his loss and extend our deepest sympathies to Phillip’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.
“Cricket Australia kindly asks that the privacy of the Hughes family, players and staff be respected.”
The 25-year-old was injured during New South Wales’ first-class match against South Australia on Tuesday.
He had scored 63 runs when he was hit by a ball from bowler Sean Abbott. He was wearing a helmet at the time.
New South Wales players and the umpires quickly rushed to his side and called for help.
He was taken by ambulance to St Vincent’s Hospital for treatment, where he later died.
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has led the tributes to the cricketer.
“His death is a very sad day for cricket and a heart-breaking day for his family,” Mr Abbott said in a statement.
“What happened has touched millions of Australians. For a young life to be cut short playing our national game seems a shocking aberration.”
