Shattered cricket friends and rivals worldwide paid tribute as news of former Test batsman Phillip Hughes’s tragic death emerged.
Flags at the SCG were placed at half-mast and social media was inundated by mourners immediately after Cricket Australia confirmed 25-year-old Hughes’s death in a Sydney hospital two days after being struck by a bouncer during a Sheffield Shield match.
“Everyone is in shock,” national selector and ex-Test batsman Mark Waugh told Fox Sports.
“He was a great young man and tremendous cricketer.
“It’s hard to fathom why it has happened to him but it has.
“We’ve got to move on but it’s going to be difficult that is for sure.
“We will have to remember the good times.”
Social media reaction to Hughes’ death was immediate and overwhelming.
“RIP you little champ, we are all going to miss you ! Love, prayers to all the Hughes family xxxx,” tweeted Australian coach Darren Lehmann, who was among the players, family and friends who kept a bedside vigil for Hughes in Sydney.
“No no no no no. RIP Phillip Hughes. And stay strong Sean Abbott,” Adam Gilchrist posted on Twitter.
“Such terrible news with the passing of Phil Hughes. Our deepest sympathies to his family,” former Test quick Glenn McGrath tweeted.
Hughes’ passing quickly ensured old sporting rivalries were forgotten.
“Shocked to hear about Phil. Sad day for cricket. Deepest condolences to family, friends and well wishers. RIP #PhilipHughes,” Indian great Sachin Tendulkar tweeted.
“A very sad day for the world of cricket. So sorry for Phillip Hughes and his family. Spare a thought for Sean Abbott,” England great Ian Botham posted.
South Africa’s Faf Du Plessis then tweeted: “No man.shocking news that Phil Hughes has passed away.cant believe it.Everyone close to him will be in my prayers.#cricketingfamily”
Sports stars from home and abroad quickly offered their condolences.
“Wow wow wow. No Sport is bigger than life itself,” tweeted Australia’s NBA star Andrew Bogut.
“What a sad sad day in sport. RIP Philip Hughes. Cricket will never be the same,” Wallabies great Tim Horan posted.
“Nothing on the course matters when things like that happen,” said golfing superstar Adam Scott after his poor day one score at the Australian Open in Sydney.
“Waking up to the terrible news about phil Hughes.. Thoughts and prayers are with his family #RIPPhilHughes,” English football legend Robbie Fowler posted.
MORE TO COME
