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Phil Hughes passes away, age 25

27th November, 2014
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Phil Hughes. (AAP Image/Dan Peled)
27th November, 2014
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Phillip Hughes, Australian Test batsman, has passed away two days after being struck on the head while playing in a Sheffield Shield match for South Australia.

Hughes tragically passed away on Thursday afternoon, after not improving from the critical condition he was in two days ago.

A stream of visitors attended Hughes’ bedside today and yesterday, including several interstate visitors and numerous visits from Australian skipper Michael Clarke and some of his South Australian teammates.

» Phil Hughes career in pictures
» A fan’s tribute to Phillip Hughes: Simple pleasures warm the heart

Hughes had severe bleeding in his skull, and was forced into surgery quickly after being hit on the head. The ball slipped underneath his helmet, striking him near the left ear causing serious damage to an artery in his head.

The pressure in the brain caused by the bleeding from the artery was relieved with the initial surgery. It has been repeatedly reported that Hughes was receiving the best possible care at the hospital.

Hughes was on life support for the duration of his time in hospital.

He was hit by a bouncer from Sean Abbott on Tuesday while 63 not out and pushing for a spot in the Australian Test team. He immediately clutched his knees, and fell to the ground several seconds after the impact. It was at that point that all the players, officials realised something was amiss.

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Hughes was taken to St Vincents Hospital in Sydney swiftly, after being treated by NSW Team doctor, Dr John Orchard and his team. Paramedics were quick to arrive, and took him to the hospital in an ambulance after intubating him at the ground.

His condition didn’t improve in the two days he was there, and he passed away in the mid afternoon on Thursday.

The young batsman was widely considered the most talented Australian player in his generation. He played 26 Test matches and managed 1535 at average over 32.

This round of Sheffield Shield matches was abandoned due to Hughes’ injury.

Hughes’ family extended the following statement to the public, read by Australian captain Michael Clarke.

“We’re devastated by the loss of our much loved son. We appreciate all the support.

“Cricket was Phillip’s life and we as a family shared that love of the game with him.

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“We would like to thank medical staff at St Vincent’s Hospital & Cricket NSW for their efforts with Phillip.

“We love you”

James Sutherland, the CEO of Cricket Australia, had the following to say.

“It’s an understatement to say we’re completely devastated. The impact of Phillip’s loss is enormous.

“The word “tragedy” gets used too often in sport, but this freak accident is now real-life tragedy.

“It was Phillip as a person we will miss most. Our grief runs deep and the impact of Phillip’s loss is enormous. He was humble, understated and hard working. He set a wonderful example.

“He will be sadly missed and forever remembered.”

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The Roar extends its deepest sympathies to Hughes’ family and friends. We also offer whatever support we can to his teammates and Sean Abbott.

The statement from Australian Team Doctor Peter Brukner read as follows:

“It is my sad duty to inform you that a short time ago Phillip Hughes passed away.

“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 asks that the privacy of the Hughes family, players and staff be respected.”

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Rest in peace, Phillip Hughes. You will be missed.

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