SYDNEY (AP) – Test batsman Phillip Hughes died in a Sydney hospital on Thursday, two days after being struck on the head by a cricket ball during a domestic first-class match. He was 25.
“It is my sad duty to inform you that a short time ago Phillip Hughes passed away,” Australian team doctor Peter Brukner said. “He never regained consciousness following his injury on Tuesday.”
Brukner said Hughes was not in pain before he died, and was surrounded by 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,” Brukner said.
Hughes’ mother and sister were at the match when he was injured, and kept vigil at the hospital. Close friend and Australia captain Michael Clarke was among dozens of former and current teammates and stars of the game who visited the hospital to offer their support to Hughes and his family. Clarke was due to read a statement from the family at a news conference later Thursday.