Phillip Hughes death - how the world reacted

Australia is beginning to wake up on the day after Phillip Hughes' death was announced. His death has left a country weeping and has "changed cricket forever" - according to former Australian batsman Michael Slater.

Read how the entire nation - including sporting icons, leading politicians and the general public - is reacting to the tragic news.

If you missed any of BBC Radio 5 live's special tribute to Phillip Hughes from Australia, you will be able to download the full podcast shortly.

BBCCopyright: BBC

Friday's Daily Telegraph has an Australian baggy green cap hanging over the boundary fence on its sports supplement.

The language of sporting hype is battles and tragedies but in reality the heroes usually walk away unscathed. That's the view of BBC's chief sports writer Tom Fordyce, who asks 'Why does a death in sport hit us so hard?' in this piece.

BBCCopyright: BBC

"Terrible day for cricket, but heart warming to see how the cricket world has joined together in tribute."

Paul: Watched the tribute from Cricket Australia (see 15:31) and was in tears. Still can't believe this young man with the world at his feet has passed away. I feel for his family and Sean Abbott.

BBCCopyright: BBC

The Guardian's sport pages lead with a striking image of Phillip Hughes waving his bat to the crowd in celebration of a century. Below that is a comment piece from their cricket correspondent, and former England bowler, Mike Selvey on the tragedy.

Jason Gillespie says it is not the time to discuss banning the bouncer - but does not believe it will be outlawed.

"The bouncer will continue - it is part of cricket. I can't see a rule change about bowling short balls," says the Yorkshire coach.

"With Phil only just passing away it is difficult to start talking about these type of things. I think there will be a time and place to discuss safety in cricket but at the moment it is time to pay respects and grieve."

Former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie says it is difficult for bowlers to deal with hurting an opposing batsman.

"I hit Colin Miller, who is a good friend, with a delivery and he needed a metal plate in his head. That was a huge battle for me to overcome at the time," he says.

"Sean Abbott has got to deal with this situation that is very confronting. But the support he will get from Cricket Australia and New South Wales will give him the best opportunity to try to get over this."

Former Australia fast bowler, and current Yorkshire coach Jason Gillespie: "I woke up early this morning in the UK to messages from back home in Australia and I just felt overriding sadness. It was shock - I was shaking when I saw that.

"I'm feeling this on the other side of the world and my first thought was 'how is everyone dealing with this in Australia?'

"There are only six sides in Australian club cricket and it is a tight knit community. Everyone bounces around the same circles on and off the field. This is something that has rocked Australian cricket to the absolute core."

More from The Australian cricket journalist Peter Lalor: "The scenes described to me from around his hospital bed are heartbreaking - but heart-warming too. Players were standing around Phil's bed and holding hands. Even some sworn enemies were embracing.

"His hospital room became more like a dressing room. Someone told me there were 86 players at the hospital on Wednesday night. There was a roster system so they could see him. Unfortunately not all of them got in before he died but most of them did."

Luke Baker: Got out of bed turned on the TV and stood in a stunned silence for 10 mins hands on head. I still can't believe it.

The Australian cricket journalist Peter Lalor was covering the match at the Sydney Cricket Ground when Phillip Hughes was hit by Sean Abbott's fatal delivery.

"This situation is too real unfortunately," he says. "When you wake up in the morning, open your eyes and think 'it happened, didn't it' - it is awful. Even though we were prepared for the news of Phil's death it was still tough to wake up to.

"It was confirmed to me on that first evening that it was unlikely he would live. There wasn't much hope for Phil from the moment after he was hit. Being there that was apparent."

ABC's lead broadcaster Gerard Whateley: "Virtually every Australian sporting organisation has joined in the condolences, starting by giving them to Phillip Hughes' family and then to Cricket Australia.

"From youngsters making their AFL debuts, to iconic figures like track cyclist Anna Meares and 100m hurdler Sally Pearson, the terrible news has transcended Australian sport. It is the collective endeavour of Australian sport so it affects them all."

Jack Harrison: If Australia were to only field 10 men in their Test match next week it would be the perfect tribute.

ABC's lead broadcaster Gerard Whateley: "This is the worst day I've known in Australia sport. That's two fold - one him being so young, a 25-year-old with his life in front of him and the second that it happened in front of us.

"We've lived through it for three days and there was a sense of dread as his team-mates and family made those processions to the hospital.

"The announcement of his death felt like a collective blow for all Australians."

Former Australia opening batsman Michael Slater: "The whole of Australia is mourning because he was a fighter. He got dropped by Australia but came back out and scored lots of runs. Australians can relate to that - he was gritty. His death has affected a nation."

Former Australia opening batsman Michael Slater: "I never played with Phillip but, when I first met him, what immediately came across was how humble he was, how much he loved talking cricket and how he looked up with these starry eyes at Michael Clarke who he was with.

"He was a remarkable young man. And condolences from around the world is testament to the bloke he was. He was a wonderful human being."

Former Australia opening batsman Michael Slater: "It is so heavy and confusing. We've all wept in the two days from when we learned of the bad knock - but I don't think anyone thought Phil Hughes would pass away. It's not what happens in cricket. Helmets are supposed to protect batsmen.

"In this instance it has changed cricket forever. I hope Sean Abbott can get through this - his life will never be the same. He's not his fault - he has to believe that."

On BBC Radio 5 live now is a special programme which is broadcast live from Melbourne.

Presenter Alison Mitchell is joined by ABC's lead broadcaster Gerard Whateley and Chloe Saltau, chief cricket writer at The Age.

Guests also include former Australian batsman Michael Slater and Hughes' former Baggy Green team-mate Adam Gilchrist.

Mark Murfin: So terrible, deepest condolences to Phillip's family and friends, from all English cricket fans.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Australia rugby union captain Michael Hooper says his team will be thinking of Phillip Hughes when they face England on Saturday.

The Wallabies will wear black armbands in the cricketer's memory at Twickenham.

"For us as a team it was a pretty sombre mood when we heard," says Hooper. "We all love our cricket, see these guys play and a lot of our guys have met the cricketers and have some good feelings towards them.

"So your thoughts and messages go back to him, his family and the cricket team back home to pull strong."

Arthur Pickthorn: Got Hughes' autograph when he was at Worcs and he shook my hand and said he hoped I enjoyed the day. Still can't believe it. RIP

More from Graeme Swann: "His first class record speaks for itself - it is phenomenal. I couldn't believe he was only 25 to be honest because I knew how many 100s he had got.

"He would have undoubtedly played in three or four more Ashes. I'm sure he would have stamped his authority on one series at least and be known as an all-time great.

"It is a tragic loss for Australia and world cricket."

Former England spinner Graeme Swann believes Phillip Hughes had the ability to become an "all-time Ashes great".

"He was a great player and his record speaks volumes," said Swann, who played against Hughes in the 2009 Ashes. "At only 25, he had some incredible first class success.

"He had not really put name on an Ashes series as he would have undoubtedly done in the future.

"The English public had probably not seen the best of him but we knew in the England changing room how good he was. We didn't take him lightly and he was a player you were always glad to see the back of."

BBCCopyright: BBC

The Courier-Mail, a Brisbane-based daily tabloid newspaper, has a picture of Phillip Hughes' Baggy Green cap underneath his international record on its back page.

Russell, Hereford: Sat in my car this morning switched the radio on and heard the news about Hughes. I could have cried. A massive cricket follower and still play at a local level. Totally numb and can't believe that's happened in cricket. RIP Phillip Hughes.

"Yes, you want bowlers to be aggressive, that's the nature of Test match cricket. You want fast bowlers firing down bouncers intimidating batsman. That's high level sport. You want bowlers to get into a batsmen's mind.

"But over the last few years cricket has gone beyond respect. I hope this incident will send a message worldwide that you play aggressive but let's stamp out this verbal abuse."

"I look at the game over the last few years and we have seen incidents out in the middle, and there have been some verbal exchanges.

"We saw that in Australia during the last Ashes when it got nasty, the Michael Clarke incident with Jimmy Anderson.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"If anything can be learned from this tragic event I hope it is that those kind of events don't happen, that verbal confrontation and abuse to batsmen doesn't happen."

Talks are continuing between England's rugby union side and their Australian counterparts about a tribute to Phillip Hughes ahead of Saturday's Autumn Test at Twickenham.

Former England bowler Dominic Cork on the effect of seeing an opponent hit by a bouncer: "As a bowler you do not go out with the intention to harm a batsman, but you do go out with intimidation - that's part of your make up.

"Personally I hit players and the most notable example was Kieron Pollard in the 2010 Twenty20 final between Hampshire and Somerset.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"We had a bit of banter and I mentioned that I might bowl a bouncer. I did and it hit him in the eye. He was down on his haunches, I went up to him and for a minute you just go cold.

"I made sure I got his personal number to make sure his eye recovered and was OK. Sean Abbott will have a lot to consider and I hope he will be OK."

Nine News Adelaide/TwitterCopyright: Nine News Adelaide/Twitter

Many floral tributes to Phillip Hughes have been left outside cricket grounds in Australia and across the world. The Nine News network in Adelaide have posted this picture of the bouquets at the Adelaide Oval - the home stadium of Hughes' team South Australia.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Former Hampshire captain Dominic Cork, who helped bring Phillip Hughes to the county in 2010: "We decided to fly him in having seen how well he had done at Middlesex, how talented he was, and his youth because we thought he would fit in well with our young team. It was a delight to meet him.

"I was captain so the younger players keep away from most cricket captains socially because they will be telling them not to drink too much and eat the right things!

"But he fitted in nicely because we were a young side. He was always laughing, was a practical joker and he was a really good bloke to know."

"It's hard to believe that all of a sudden, on the verge of another re-appearance for Australia, Phillip Hughes' career and his life has been taken away.

"Cricket's the national sport. We've had the prime minister and former prime minister in a very disturbed way about what's occurred. You cannot believe the circumstances, as I say, of Phillip Hughes's death and the country is certainly in mourning tonight."

Tim, via text on 81111: I got hit by a cricket ball when I was 15, broke my eye socket, cheek bone and nose. Took two months to recover completely. Was unconscious for about six hours. I still play cricket but it is a dangerous sport. Cricket has lost a legend in the making. Thoughts going out to his family and friends.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen says he admired Phillip Hughes' style and enjoyed watching the Australia batsman play.

"He played the type of game I liked and I always watched him from afar," says Pietersen.

"You always check up on certain individuals because you like the brand of cricket they play - and he was one of those.

"We knew if we weren't on our game he would punish us. He entertained. He scored really quickly and I liked that about him."

Australia Prime Minister Tony Abbott says the death of Phillip Hughes has "shocked and dismayed millions and millions of Australians".

He added: "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. And we also must remember Sean Abbott who will be devastated at this accident."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"Should the bouncer be banned from cricket? No chance. The day someone says the bouncer has to stop is the day that anyone can play.

"That's the difference between those who don't play at a high level and those who do, those who can face the quick stuff.

"This is a freak accident and if bouncers are outlawed then it will be the end of Test match cricket. The aggressive nature of Test match cricket has to carry on."

"It will be a real long process for Australia to see an end and move on from this tragic event.

"It is going to be an awful time for Phillip Hughes' team-mates at South Australia, New South Wales and Cricket Australia.

"But in time the game will have to carry on. Phillip Hughes was such a fighter and he will be looking down at the other Aussie players saying 'get out there and play. Play in that aggressive manner that I played'."

World Snooker ‏announces there will be a minute's silence in honour of Phillip Hughes ahead of the evening session at tonight's UK Championship. Australian Neil Robertson is among the players taking part in tonight's session.

South Australia high-performance manager Tim Neilsen: "It will take a while to get over this - it has been a long three days. It's been hard, and was hard to break the news to the playing group earlier, obviously that wasn't good and was a challenge itself.

"It was a reaction of shock, deep down everyone hoped and prayed that Hughsie would come through.

"The situation we're in now is not one that many had contemplated until maybe the last 12 hours."

"He was a cheeky chappy. I was never inside a dressing room with him but I saw him around before and after the Ashes Tests.

"I always thought he was the kind of guy that you want in your team because he was a joy and played the right way. Because of the flamboyant way he played I always followed him to see what scores he was getting.

"He was a remarkable run getter and I believe he would have had a period of dominance in Test cricket."

"It's still very difficult to comprehend what's happened. He was doing his job, batting nicely at 63. There won't be a cricketer who hasn't shivered and gone numb with the thought of what's happened.

"I've thought 'I've been hit many times' but I was lucky nothing drastic happened. It's a freak accident and it has hit home that cricket is a dangerous sport and these kind of accidents can happen."

BBC Radio 5 live's special tribute programme to Phillip Hughes is under way. You can listen by clicking the 'Live Coverage' tab on this page in the next few minutes.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Golfers competing at the Australian Open will show their respect to Phillip Hughes during play on Friday.

All players will wear a black ribbon in the second round at The Australian Golf Club.

Championship director Trevor Herden said it was a sign of solidarity in the sporting community as the nation grieves the loss of one of its top professional sportsmen.

"Not just as athletes, but as a community, the loss hit hard today and we feel it's the right thing to do to show our tournament and the players are right behind the Hughes family and the cricket community," he says.

"It's the best way we can show our respect at this time."

After 21:00 GMT, the programme will be live in Melbourne.

Presenter Alison Mitchell will be joined by ABC's lead broadcaster Gerard Whateley and Chloe Saltau, chief cricket writer at The Age.

Guests will also include former Australian batsman Michael Slater and Hughes' former Baggy Green team-mate Adam Gilchrist.

In about 10 minutes time, BBC Radio 5 live have a special programme tonight in tribute to Phillip Hughes.

Between 19:00 and 20:00 GMT, Eleanor Oldroyd will be joined by former England captain Michael Vaughan, BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew and Kevin Pietersen.

Dominic Cork, former Australia coach Tim Nielsen and ABC's Jim Maxwell will also react to the news.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Australia's dressing room will take a long time to recover from Phillip Hughes' death, says former England spinner Graeme Swann.

"Phillip's death will hit the Australia team very hard, those close to him will be devastated. So will other players who came into contact with him. I know England bowler Steven Finn was a good friend from when they played at Middlesex.

"For his family, it is going to be world shattering. I can't believe it has happened. And the fact that he was only 25 - it's cruel."

Tim O'Brien: Phillip Hughes's death is tragic. A bouncer is bullying, threatening head injury. Would be banned in another sport.

More from Matthew Hoggard: "It's going to be a tough road for Sean to come back. But Phil wouldn't hold it against him and would want him to continue his career.

"We've lost one person through a freak accident and we don't want to see someone else's career be lost too."

Former England bowler Matthew Hoggard on the future of Sean Abbott, who bowled the fatal delivery which struck Phillip Hughes: "He's in a horrible situation. He was widely tipped to go on and represent Australia.

"As a fast bowler you use the bouncer to intimidate batsmen, you want to scare them. If you hit them you don't want to injure them."

BBCCopyright: BBC

'We Love You' is the headline on the front page of Friday's Sydney Morning Herald, accompanied by a picture of Phillip Hughes holding aloft his bat to Australian fans.

Dartlynx: So sad about Phillip Hughes....devastating. And remember poor Sean Abbott too.

Keep sending your tributes to Phillip Hughes using #bbcsportsday on Twitter, by texting 81111, or by posting on our Facebook page.

The cricketing world is rallying around bowler Sean Abbott (pictured right) amid fears he may never play again in the wake of Phillip Hughes's death.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Abbott's ball struck Hughes in the neck during a domestic match in Australia and the 25-year-old died on Thursday.

The Australia captain Michael Clarke and Hughes's sister Megan spent time comforting Abbott, 22, at St Vincent's Hospital. He has received counselling from Cricket Australia.

Herald SunCopyright: Herald Sun

This is the front page on Friday's Herald Sun. The newspaper devotes its first seven pages to the story, as well as having more coverage in the sport section.

The AgeCopyright: The Age

This is what the back page of Friday's newspaper The Age looks like. The Melbourne-based publication also features a quote from the statement read out by Australia captain Michael Clarke on behalf of Hughes's family.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"During a 13-year playing career I bowled bouncers - hundreds of them. Hit a lot of batsmen. Top players.

"All hit on the head. There were others too. None, fortunately, seriously injured."

Simon Hughes reflects on the tragedy of Phillip Hughes' death and how the cricket family will rally round bowler Sean Abbott.

London Evening StandardCopyright: London Evening Standard

The back page of tonight's London Evening Standard features a black and white picture of Phillip Hughes as well as a quote from the family statement.

BBC Radio 5 live have a special programme tonight in tribute to Phillip Hughes.

Between 19:00 and 20:00 GMT, Eleanor Oldroyd will be joined by former England captain Michael Vaughan, BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew and Kevin Pietersen.

Dominic Cork, former Australia coach Tim Nielsen and ABC's Jim Maxwell will also react to the news.

After 21:00 GMT, the programme will be live in Melbourne.

Alison Mitchell will be joined by ABC's lead broadcaster Gerard Whateley and Chloe Saltau, chief cricket writer at The Age.

Guests will also include former Australian batsman Michael Slater and Hughes' former Baggy Green team-mate Adam Gilchrist.

Candace Sutton gives an insight into Hughes' family life growing up in the country to become an Australian international, and the resilience that kept him at the top. She writes for the Daily Mail and Daily Mail Australia:

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"Phillip Hughes was the son of banana farmer from the northern New South Wales town of Macksville who was dropped from the Australian Test team five times, but who never gave up is being remembered for his defiant attitude in the face of adversity."

"The left-handed opener was the son of Greg Hughes, who cleared a patch on his farm for young Phil to practice cricket, and mother Virginia, who is of Italian origin.

"Growing up with sister, Megan, and brother, Jason, as a teenager he often helped out hauling heavy bunches of bananas for the family business."

A selection of tributes on Twitter from cricket players around the world:

Former South Africa fast bowler Shaun Pollock: "Absolutely shocked to hear the news of Phil Hughes passing away. Thoughts and prays are with his family as well as Sean Abbott."

South African cricketer AB de Villiers: "Heart broken. A very dark day. You will be missed, Phil Hughes. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family & friends."

South African fast bowler Dale Steyn: "Totally saddened by the passing of our cricket brother and friend Phil Hughes. Terrible loss. Deepest condolences to his family."

AgencyCopyright: Agency

The news of Phillip Hughes' death broke around 04:30 GMT.

Shortly after, Australia captain and close friend Michael Clarke read a short statement to the media on behalf of Hughes' family - at the Sydney hospital where he had been treated.

See a short video clip here.

Australia has shown an outpouring grief in the wake of Phillip Hughes' death.

"His death is a very sad day for cricket and a heartbreaking day for his family.

"What happened has touched millions of Australians," said Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Kevin Pietersen has told the Daily Telegraph about the Phillip Hughes he knew.

"He was the kind of fellow player you always liked to keep an eye on from afar.

AFPCopyright: AFP

"I would always look out for his scores and hope he had made runs because he batted with a wonderful spirit and freedom.

"He made the absolute most of his ability and wanted to entertain the supporters by playing cricket in the positive style we all love to watch."

AFPCopyright: AFP

Jack De Menezes in The Independent considers six law changes cricket could consider in the wake of Phillip Hughes' death.

As well as making suggestions, the report also looks at the problems the game could face if seeking to implement change.

The Guardian has led the tributes to Phillip Hughes in today's newspapers here in the UK.

Cricket writer Russell Jackson writes:

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"Phillip Hughes subverted a lot of cliches about his generation of cricketer. Hard-working and modest, his strokes didn't come from the textbook but they were endlessly-honed in the nets.

"With no small amount of chutzpah he'd moved away from his family's Macksville farm at 16 to pursue his cricketing dream in Sydney grade cricket.

"Phillip Joel Hughes seemed destined for greatness at a young age. It was a level of expectation and pressure that Hughes wore with humility and a path for which he prepared himself diligently."

PACopyright: PA

A Baggy Green Australia cap is left among the tributes outside the Grace Gates at Lord's earlier in memory of Phillip Hughes.

@HomeOfCricketCopyright: @HomeOfCricket

Lord's tweets this tribute: #PhilHughes A fitting tribute by @Middlesex_CCC Director of Cricket Angus Fraser

PACopyright: PA

Floral tributes are left outside the Grace Gate at Lord's Cricket Ground.

Phillip Hughes represented both Australia and Middlesex on the famous ground during his career.

The Daily Telegraph's chief sports writer Paul Hayward says cricket may take years to recover from Phillip Hughes' death.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"If cricket was unprepared for the funeral of a 25-year-old batter who was on the verge of a recall to the Australia team - and was hailed as a boy wonder on an Ashes tour of these shores - then the process of feeling 'normal' about cricket again will take years, not months, and may never reach its end."

More from Nick Compton on his reaction to Hughes' death: "You're talking about a guy who was really loved by everyone he played with.

"He had so many friends, the well-wishing has been phenomenal.

"It's more of an insight into what a tremendous guy he was and as I say he had a huge impact on my own career and the way he viewed things."

England Test opener Nick Compton has been talking about Phillip Hughes on 5 live drive in the last hour:

"He was a very, very close friend of mine.

"He had a huge impact on my own career at a time when I probably needed it most.

"He was a cheeky funny positive guy, he never complained. He always came over and made the most of everything.

"Looking back, I feel like he's made the most of his 25 years and it breaks my heart to think of a guy who I certainly thought would go down in the record books as one of the better run-scorers in Australian cricket."

A quick reminder that BBC Radio 5 live have a special programme tonight in tribute to Phillip Hughes.

Between 19:00 and 20:00 GMT, Eleanor Oldroyd will be joined by former England captain Michael Vaughan, BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew and Kevin Pietersen.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

She'll also hear from Dominic Cork, Tim Nielsen, the high performance director of Hughes's South Australia side and ABC's Jim Maxwell.

After 21:00 GMT, the programme will be live in Melbourne as Australia wakes up.

Alison Mitchell will be joined by ABC's lead broadcaster Gerard Whateley and Chloe Saltau, chief cricket writer at The Age as they gauge the reaction Down Under.

They'll also speak to the former Australian batsman Michael Slater and Hughes' former Baggy Green team-mate Adam Gilchrist.

BBC sports news and cricket correspondent Joe Wilson gives his insight into the debate surrounding whether cricket should change following today's tragic news:

"Since the 1930s, we know aggressive bowling has always been a part of the game, but never imagining that it could lead to the death of a batsman.

"What has changed in cricket is the level of protection batsmen wear, they've gone from a culture of avoiding the ball to a culture of going after it.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"Hughes was an Australian dream, he really went after the ball and that was how he played. While helmets have heavy protection for the front of the head, what happened in this case was that Hughes turned his head and the ball struck him on the neck.

"The fact this worst case scenario has happened, cricket can't forget that now."

Andrew Ramsey, a writer for the Australia Cricket website, tells BBC Radio 5 live how Phillip Hughes developed an unorthodox shot-style through the offside because of the structure of the garden he played in growing up:

"It was a very unorthodox technique, but he could work so hard on eradicating the errors people held against him. He could hit the ball to places most people can't," he said.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"He was close to his community. Every chance he got he would go back to New South Wales and help his dad out there. It's very difficult to find anyone to say anything bad about Phil Hughes. He was a consummate professional who got the job done.

"He was a New South Wales boy who moved to South Australia for more opportunities - the game in which he was hit was against New South Wales so the opponents were also his friends who had known him for years, so there is a lot of hurt in Australian cricket."

Here's a selection of your tributes to Phillip Hughes in the BBC Sport Facebook page:

Philby J Jarvis: It's hard to believe - a talent taken too soon

Luke Holden: Talk about a freak accident! Its hard to see but cricket is actually one of the safest sports and this still happens. So sad. God knows what the bowler is going through now.

Ameet Pandit: A sad day for cricket. RIP Phil Hughes. Sean Abbot - stay strong.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast this morning, former bowler and England bowling coach Peter Lever shared his memories of a Test match in 1975, when he bowled a bouncer that hit batsman Ewen Chatfield, who fell to the ground swallowing his tongue.

Chatfield eventually made a full recovery.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"My accuracy came unstuck a bit and the ball got too close to him. There was a nick on the bat, it hit him on the temple and down he went," Lever said.

"It's a very difficult thing to handle. Sean Abbott certainly won't be sleeping for the next few weeks, that's for sure.

"I honestly do not know how they can help a young fellow who has simply bowled a delivery at cricket.

"Sean will have to deal with it, I'm sure he's got many friends to help him, but he has got to come to terms with what has happened."

Jim Maxwell, the Australian cricket broadcaster, says Hughes was "natural, phlegmatic, laconic, affable and easily engaged."

The ABC commentator wrote his tribute and insight into the 25-year-old's upbringing and development into a Test international for the BBC Sport website here.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

PACopyright: PA

The big screen at Trent Bridge in Nottingham displays its own tribute to Phillip Hughes.

Hughes scored 81 not out on the ground in the Ashes Test match against England in 2013 in a then world-record 10th-wicket partnership with Ashton Agar.

Cricket Australia have released this video tribute to the life and career of Phillip Hughes, which includes never-before-seen footage of his early involvement in cricket growing up in New South Wales and his life on the road with the Australia team.

CricketAusCopyright: CricketAus

More from Kevin Pietersen on BBC World News when asked how cricket could improve safety in the future: "Can we answer those questions from tomorrow onwards?

"I don't think today's the day for that conversation.

"I just want to pay my respects to his friends and family and I think that debate can start in the days to come."

More from Kevin Pietersen on BBC World News:

"What a guy Hughesy was, I remember watching his centuries against South Africa [see 11:54]. He started his career with an absolute bang.

"When you are a Test player in Australia the public will demand performances and it obviously affected him. But according to his colleagues he was really blossoming."

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen tells BBC World News that today should be about expressing memories of Phillip Hughes and sympathy for his family, rather than looking into how cricket can improve.

"You practice and you train hard and try and get out the way, but today is not the day to be talking about how to deal with fast bowling," he said.

"He was developing into a magnificent cricketer, I remember watching his 100 against Sri Lanka, his first one day century.

"He was the kind to entertain, and if he batted for a session or two you were in trouble because he scored very quickly - I loved that about him."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Actor and cricket fan Hugh Jackman tweets: To Philip Hughes family, my deepest condolences. To all the players, especially Sean, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Tragic day.

Worcestershire's director of cricket Steve Rhodes told Sky Sports News about how he flew out to Australia to sign Hughes to the county in 2012, and his sadness today:

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"It has been terrible for everybody here," he said. "He was only a young bloke and got on so well with our youngsters. It is very sad in the dressing room and in this county today.

"It was easy bringing him in. When he was in good nick he was a run-thief, he scored runs match after match after match. I was delighted, I went out to Aus to see him and I was so happy to come back knowing he was going to be one of our players.

"He loved life and he was a fun guy. It was only last week he text me the words of our Worcestershire team victory song. That's typical Hughesy, full of it."

Former Australia bowler Jason Gillespie has expressed his sympathy for bowler Sean Abbott, who bowled the delivery which struck Hughes the fatal blow. He told BBC Radio 5 live:

"We're all feeling for Sean Abbott, who was just out there doing his job. They were very good mates and he was the first one there when Phillip fell down.

"He's 22 years old and he's got the cricket world in front of him. The one thing he will have in place is absolute support from the cricket community

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"The outpour of emotion from across the world speaks volumes for Phillip. He's just a lovely young man, knockabout kid, very positive and glass was always half-full.

"He was just that sort of character, a fun-loving guy and very popular with his team mates and opposition. This has rocked the sport of cricket to the very core."

Cricket journalist Mazher Arshad tweets: At the end of First Class match between NBP and UBL at Islamabad, the players paid homage to Phillip Hughes.

Mazherarshad/TwitterCopyright: Mazherarshad/Twitter

A reminder that BBC Radio 5 live will broadcast a series of programmes in tribute to Phillip Hughes this evening.

At 19:00 GMT Eleanor Oldroyd and Michael Vaughan present all the news and reaction following the tragic news which broke this morning.

At 21:00 GMT Alison Mitchell presents live from Australia as the country comes to terms with the death of one of its most promising sporting talents. She will be joined by players and cricket journalists.

The Australian rugby team will wear black armbands for Saturday's autumn international against England as a mark of respect for Phillip Hughes.

Captain Michael Hooper said the Wallabies will be "thinking of Phil and his family" as they take to the field for the Twickenham Test.

He added: "A lot of guys know a few of the cricket boys and they are great. To see one of their guys go down is horrible, and doing what he loved, is tough to take."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Former England captain Mike Gatting has added his tribute to Phillip Hughes today. He told BBC Sport:

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"It's tragic. I was shocked and I was hoping the phone call I received this morning would say he was pulling through. It's a very sad day for cricket and our thoughts are with his family.

"It's a cricketing family and you see that from the reaction of players today, sending tweets, sending thoughts and sorrow.

"Phil was very respected. He played at Middlesex, Hampshire and Worcester - and the same thing comes back, that he was a very talented, well-liked, humble cricketer. A man who wanted to play as often as he could for Australia and he worked very hard to get to that stage.

"It's sad we've lose someone of Phillip's ability today, but the equipment we have today has saved countless people from injuries."

Sean Abbott - the bowler who delivered the ball which hit Phillip Hughes high in the neck - may never play cricket again.

Those were the words of ex-England bowler David Lawrence, speaking earlier to BBC Radio 5 live.

Lawrence, who hit the West Indies' Phil Simmons on the temple in 1988, said: "I know what Sean is going through.

"My thoughts go out to him as well - because whether he will come back from this or not, personally I don't think he'll play cricket again."

ReutersCopyright: Reuters

A bouquet left in memory of Phillip Hughes is pictured at the gates of the Sydney Cricket Ground.

@davidwarner31Copyright: @davidwarner31

David Warner tweets: Brothers in arms, RIP mate. I will always walk out there forever knowing your by my side. Love you BRAZ!!

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Cricket Australia has compiled a gallery of Phillip Hughes' career highlights.

From his New South Wales debut in 2007 to finishing his final innings 63 not out for South Australia, Sam Ferris documents his life in cricket.

Australia selector Mark Waugh revealed Phillip Hughes was poised to make his Test return to face India in Brisbane, The Australiian reports.

"It makes it an even tougher pill to swallow," Waugh told Fox Sports in Australia.

PACopyright: PA

Former England captain Nasser Hussain told Sky Sports News he was in "complete and utter shock" when he heard the news this morning:

"My first instinct was just 'No, no, not in our sport,' I just didn't believe it would happen," he said.

"Phillip Hughes had a real fighting spirit about him. He didn't always have the best technique but he never gave up. He was a fighter.

"It really puts the game of cricket into some kind of perspective. In terms of Australia's Test series with India - to ask some of those players to strap on their pads and play a game of cricket might be asking too much - although they might want it to be a tribute to him.

"We have to look at how we can improve safety equipment in any way we can. Especially fielding at short leg, I would want the back of my neck protected now, as that is a position where you turn your back on the ball often."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 live earlier about bowler Sean Abbott:

"It's horrible feeling when you do that.

"It's part of the tactic of fast bowling - to bowl short at the batsmen to insight a bit of fear, a bit of apprehension but you don't want to cause injury.

"When you do, it's a bit like injuring one of your kids.

"Cricket is a huge family and we're all part of it. When you do injure a fellow batsmen, a fellow cricketer, it's a horrible thing.

"You feel ashamed and you want to try and get that ball back and you regret it happening.

"I have no idea how Sean Abbott is going to deal with it because he'll blame himself totally and he'll have a great deal of difficulty getting back into the game. He's got to live with this."

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 live earlier about future designs of cricket helmets:

"What I think will happen inevitably after this is that there will be ever more research into the design of helmets to see what improvements can be made.

"You want them to be liked and comfortable on the one hand, but you obviously want them to protect every part of the head, which maybe wasn't the case here.

"They'll be lots of intense research I'm sure in the next few weeks and months into that aspect.

BBCCopyright: BBC

"But I don't see how you could possibly change the way the game is played.

"And everyone is of course desperately sympathetic for the Hughes family.

"But spare a thought for Sean Abbott who bowled the ball and is a perfectly innocent part in all this."

Here's what you've been saying about Phillip Hughes' death on Twitter using #bbcsportsday

Myles Warwood: While it's terrible Hughes has lost his life playing cricket, I also feel very sorry for the bowler, will he ever play again?

Ali: Still wondering about the news after nearly 9 hrs that Phil is passed away. A great loss of amazing young talent.

Irfan Afzal: shocked & saddened by Phil Hughes passing away, RIP.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"Philip Hughes was an uncomplicated country boy, who moved as a youngster to play cricket against the men from the city.

"He was a natural - phlegmatic, laconic, affable and easily engaged."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

In case you're just joining us for the first time - a reminder of our main story.

Australia captain Michael Clarke read out a short statement on behalf of Phillip Hughes' family shortly after the 25-year-old's death was confirmed in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Speaking on behalf of parents Greg and Virginia, sister Megan and brother Jason, he said: "We're devastated by the loss of our much-loved son and brother, Phillip.

"It's been a very difficult few days."

England and Hampshire batsman Michael Carberry tweets: Can't put into my words my sadness at the loss of Phil Hughes. We have lost a great talent but also a great person. #RIPPhilHughes

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Australia legend Shane Warne has led calls for the cricket world to support fast bowler Sean Abbott following Phillip Hughes' death.

Abbott bowled the ball which hit Hughes high on the neck on Tuesday.

"It's important for friends and the cricket community to get round Sean," Warne said of the 22-year-old.

"I'm sure he'll be distraught but it's not his fault."

Former England spinner Shaun Udal was Hughes' captain at Middlesex during his brief stint in 2009.

He told BBC Radio Berkshire: "I'm devastated.

"He was a wonderful human being, a joy to have around the place, always happy, positive and upbeat. A cheeky chappy and one of those fun life guys who was so talented. It's awful.

"It's a freak accident, in any contact sport there is a risk and this is one of those horrible and horrific things we just can't explain and hopefully will never, ever be repeated.

"There is design work being done to improve the helmet as we speak but you are never going to be totally safe. That is the risk you take in any contact sport."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

More from Giles White, Hampshire director of cricket, on Phillip Hughes: "He was only here for a short amount of time but what struck me was what a fantastic bloke he was.

"His batting was exceptional, he didn't have the best spell here but he got involved, worked extremely hard and was a great bloke to have about. He will be sorely missed.

"The reason we got him was because we wanted a quality batsman and a quality bloke and he was fantastic to have around.

"It's very tough, everyone in cricket is feeling it, it's a very sad time."

Hampshire director of cricket Giles White has spoken toBBC Radio Solentabout Phillip Hughes - who made five appearances for the county in 2010.

"The reaction is shock," he said.

"I felt Phillip would get through this because of the nature of the character. I guess I was naïve as to the severity of the injury, so I'm very shocked at the very sad news.

"It's not something you associate with cricket. It's a freak incident and the worst possible result."

More from Matthew Hoggard, speaking to BBC Sport, about bowler Sean Abbott: "There's great things coming from him and a lot of people tipped him to play for Australia.

"Hopefully he can get the support around him and find the strength to carry on.

"I'm sure Phil would have wanted it because it was a tragic accident."

Former England bowler Matthew Hoggard has been speaking to BBC Sport's Natalie Pirks.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

He said: "As a fast bowler, the bouncer is part of your armoury.

"You bowl it to be intimidating, but you don't bowl it to try and hurt people.

"You try to unsettle them, get them on the back foot.

"To bowl a ball that has resulted in somebody dying has got to be absolutely devastating."

@PeterSiddle403Copyright: @PeterSiddle403

Australia bowler Peter Siddle tweets: Forever Not Out in My Heart Braz! ❤️ #RIPHughesy #408 #63NotOut

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

In case you're just joining our page for the first time today, a recap on some of our coverage.

Australia team doctor Peter Brukner described Phillip Hughes' fatal injuries as "a freakish accident".

Brukner said Hughes, 25, died as a result of a vertebral artery dissection, which caused a "massive bleed" on the brain.

Former West Indies captain Sir Viv Richards tweets: Huge loss for our cricketing family. Deepest sympathy for Phillip's family, friends & associates. Sean Abbott in our thoughts & prayers also.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has been giving his reaction to Sky Sports News: "It's a tragic loss to our great game.

"He was developing into a fantastic cricketer.

"He was probably on course to do great things for Australia.

"It's a sad loss for sport, not just for cricket. It's a dark day for cricket. It's really sad."

@AaronFinch5Copyright: @AaronFinch5

Australia batsman and Yorkshire overseas player Aaron Finch tweets: This is how I will remember you legend! The most infectious smile and best friend anyone could have! Forever with us!

An often fractious first Ashes Test series in 2013 was dominated by vexation over DRS and a curious succession of last-wicket stands.

Hughes began the sequence alongside debutant number 11 Ashton Agar in the first Test at Trent Bridge.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

The senior partner's unbeaten 81 from 131 balls was chiselled out against a tough attack.

He and Agar joined forces on a first-innings 117-9 and took the total to an astounding 280 - his teenage partner making 98.

After more last-ditch heroics on either side, a titanic Test went England's way by just 14 runs.

Here's what some of you have been saying on the BBC Sport Facebook page:

Jacqueline Thomas: Condolences to the friends and family of Phil. An awful accident that was no one's fault. Sending love and support to Sean too. They were both doing what they loved. K

McDonald Bill: This is a tragic reminder that sport can carry terrible risks and we should remember this was a freak accident. R.I.P. Philip, your light will shine forever

Sue Curtis: Thinking of all those cricketers in that match, what a terrible thing to happen. RIP to a great young cricketer, and thoughts and prayers with his family and friends

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

BBC Sport's Patrick Gearey looks back on Phillip Hughes' career in this video tribute.

As Alison Mitchell hinted earlier (see 10:37), Eleanor Oldroyd and Michael Vaughan will present a BBC Radio 5 live sport special this evening from 19:00 GMT in tribute to Phillip Hughes.

From 21:00 GMT, Alison Mitchell presents live from Australia as the country comes to terms with Hughes' tragic death.

She will be joined by players and cricket journalists.

Hughes' instant success as a 19-year-old waned as he was dropped mid-series from the 2009 Ashes - and had to set about restating his case.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

It proved no easy task, but March was again kind to him as he piled into the New Zealand attack for a second-innings 86 not out from just 75 balls in Wellington. Hughes hit 12 fours and a six to hasten Australia to victory by 10 wickets.

Hughes was far from done in Durban, even after his first innings 115 (see 11:11). He duly doubled up in the second innings with 160.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Australia comfortably oversaw South Africa, and Hughes gained his place in the history books, deposing West Indies great George Headley, after almost 80 years, as the youngest batsman to make a century in each innings of a Test.

@HomeOfcricketCopyright: @HomeOfcricket

Lord's tweets: The MCC flag lowered behind the Compton Stand this morning for #PhilHughes

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

In his column for the Telegraph today, Geoffrey Boycott writes how modern batsmen have come to rely too heavily on helmets for protection:

"Helmets have made batsmen feel safe in the belief that they cannot be hurt and made batsmen more carefree and careless.

"As a consequence more players get hit on the helmet nowadays than ever got hit on the head, before we batted without this protection.

"I was lucky that I grew up without helmets in the Sixties and Seventies so learnt from a very early age I had to be very selective."

Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson tweets: Extremely saddened R.I.P 408 bruz

AFPCopyright: AFP

More from Jason Gillespie - speaking to Sky Sports News about Sean Abbott, who bowled the ball which hit Hughes: "Abbott is a lovely young kid who was just running in and doing his job, bowling balls and it was one of the last things that he would have expected.

"We are really feeling for him right now and everyone who was there.

"With all due respect I don't think that this is the time to talk about the safety issues and that sort of thing.

"Phillip's family are grieving, the cricket community are grieving, and his friends outside of cricket are grieving."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Former Australia bowler and now Yorkshire coach Jason Gillespie, speaking on Sky Sports News earlier: "It was just devastating, I can't imagine how everyone back over in Australia is coping.

"I know a lot of people there who are grieving. He was a very popular character, friends with everyone there and I just can't imagine what it would be like to have been there at the accident.

"A lot of those lads have grown up playing cricket together and it will be a very tough time for them. It is just horrific circumstances that shouldn't happen in sport."

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

"Watch a short video on the BBC Sport website, sharing my views on modern day safety in cricket.

"I think the game is as safe as it's ever been and this has tragically been a freak accident.

"Very, very unlucky and extremely unfortunate.

"Helmets are very good. There's lots of technology that's been brought in to make them safe."

@ICCCopyright: @ICC

The ICC tweet: Cricket is united in grief today for the loss of Phillip Hughes, he will forever be #63NotOut

Australian paper The Daily Telegraph has blacked-out the back page of its Friday edition in tribute to Phillip Hughes.

Daily TelegraphCopyright: Daily Telegraph

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Former England batsman Ian Botham has had this to say on today's news.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 live's Tim Peach, he said: "I think it's a very sad day for cricket.

"It's a very sad day for Phillip Hughes' family and for his friends. My thoughts are with them, the whole cricketing world's thoughts are with them.

"It's just a shock. I think we should just let the family remember the great times. It's very sad."

Just under a year after he announced his talent to the world in Sydney, Hughes was already playing in his second Test match for Australia.

He made his mark with a century against South Africa's faltering pace attack, who were unable to stop him once he was in full flow.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Hughes reached his hundred with successive sixes off Paul Harris, having dominated an opening stand of 184 with fellow left-hander Simon Katich.

The ECB has announced the 2015 domestic fixtures will be announced at 10:30 GMT on Friday.

They were originally due to be released this morning.

Here's a couple more tweets and tributes from the cricketing world for Phillip Hughes:

Former Australia wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist: For eternity the spirit of Cap No. 408. #RIPPhilHughes

Former England all-rounder David Lloyd: Just heard the awful news. Phil Hughes, a young man with his life taken away doing the thing he loved. R.I.P

Let's take a look back at some of Hughes' outstanding innings from a career that has been tragically cut short, starting with his bow as 19-year-old for New South Wales in Sydney in March 2008.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Hughes, just 19, capped a highly-successful first Sheffield Shield season by becoming the youngest player to hit a century in a Pura Cup final.

His second-innings 116 helped New South Wales to a 258-run win over Victoria at the SCG and signalled a significant talent ready to move up to the wider stage.

ReutersCopyright: Reuters

Members of two local cricket teams observe a moment of silence for Phillip Hughes before their match in Kolkata, India.

BBC SportCopyright: BBC Sport

BBC Test Match Special tweets: There will be a minutes silence before the second ODI on Saturday in Colombo to pay tribute to Phillip Hughes

@HomeOfCricketCopyright: @HomeOfCricket

Lord's, the Home Of Cricket, tweets: Flowers laid outside the Grace Gate at Lord's this morning for #PhilHughes

A desperate day. We'll pay full tribute to Phil Hughes on 5Live Sport from 7pm UK time @bbc5live.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Middlesex have released a tribute to Phillip Hughes, who had a brief spell with the club in 2009.

A statement on the club website said: "The thoughts and love of everyone at the club goes out to Phil's family and friends during this terrible time.

"Phil was a bright, talented and fun young man, who made a huge impression on the Club during his brief stay here at Lord's.

"Middlesex CCC is proud that he represented the club."

The ECB has postponed announcing the 2015 domestic fixtures in light of Phillip Hughes' death until further notice.

They were due to be released this morning.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Bowler Sean Abbott, 22, who delivered the ball which struck Phillip Hughes, has been pictured looking distraught as leaves St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney.

@TheAdelaideOvalCopyright: @TheAdelaideOval

A picture of the Adelaide Oval scoreboard as pictured on their Twitter account: RIP Phillip Hughes #AdelaideOval #Adelaide

A tribute image was also placed on video screen at the ground:

@TheAdelaideOvalCopyright: @TheAdelaideOval

AFPCopyright: AFP

Reaction from Phillip Hughes' South Australia team-mate Kane Richardson:

"It was an honour to play alongside you at club, state and international level.

"You were an absolute genius on the field and a loveable lad off it.

"To know that we will never share a changing room again hurts, but I am privileged to know that we did.

"Every time I pull on one of those caps above I will think of you. I don't know how we will go on without you, but we will have to find a way, which is what you always did.

"Even in your last innings they still couldn't touch you. 63*. RIP Brus, Son, Boss, maaaaaate."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

At 11 hours ahead of GMT, Sydney learned the news of Phillip Hughes' death at around 16:00 local time.

The day's front page of the local newspaper was pictured outside St Vincent's Hospital, as the nation started mourning for one of its most promising cricketers.

Shane Warne, speaking on Sky Sports News: "He is very, very humble.

"He loved the game and wanted to the best player he possibly could. It is just an absolute tragedy.

"It is just so, so sad and horrific. We've lost one of the good guys."

More reaction from Simon Jones: "He [Phillip Hughes] was a good lad you know.

"Obviously I'm 10 years older than him. He was a young lad when he was at Hampshire, he was 21, 22 years old, so it was one of those things you try to look after him, make him feel at home and try and help him any way you can.

"The thing that struck me about Phil was his energy and his love for the game.

"He always wanted to get better, I didn't see anyone work as hard as him and I'm deeply saddened today."

Speaking to BBC Radio Wales former England bowler Simon Jones, a Hampshire team-mate of Phillip Hughes, said: "It's obviously shocking news to wake up to.

"My wife came in and shook me this morning and said in a very upset manner that Phillip had passed away and I was in shock because when I heard the news I thought with the way things are he's just going to be in hospital for three or four days and recover and then be back to normal.

"To hear that he's passed away is deeply saddening and my thoughts go out to his family and friends but also to the bowler Sean Abbott.

"You know it's something that we do as a job as a quick bowler - you run in and try and be aggressive and impose yourself. You never go out to intentionally hurt someone, but for someone to actually die, it's sickening."

Hampshire have issued a tribute to Phillip Hughes, who made five appearances for the county in 2010.

Club chairman Rod Bransgrove said: "I cannot begin to comprehend the loss of a talented & lovely lad. You are part of our family. Rest in peace buddy."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Cricket Australia writer Andrew Ramsay describes Phillip Hughes as "a country boy who chased his Baggy Green dreams" in this tribute published in the last hour.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Australia batsman David Warner was pictured leaving St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney in tears.

He is accompanied by his partner Candice Falzon and Australia wicketkeeper Matthew Wade.

On Instagram, Warner said: RIP my little man. You will always be with me when I walk out onto the field. Not just a mate but a loved one to us all big man. Forever in my heart brother for life. Miss you buddy.

@WorcsCCCCopyright: @WorcsCCC

Worcestershire CCC tweet: #RIPHughesy a much loved Pear, his passing is a great loss to the game. #475

Worcestershire captain Daryl Mitchell, a former team-mate of Phillip Hughes, told Sky Sports News: "Phillip was a great asset to our dressing room. A bubbly character, a cheeky chappy.

"He was just a great guy to have around, very successful.

"The memories I will hold on to of him were of his dressing room banter and his ability to get on superbly with team-mates."

A two-day tour match between a Cricket Australia XI and India, scheduled to start on Friday in Adelaide has been cancelled.

Pat Howard from Cricket Australia said: "Today we were reminded that cricket is just a game and it is the characters that play the game that make it so special.

"We have spoken to the players and have made the decision based on the best interest of all concerned.

"Several of the CA XI players have returned home to seek support and solace from their family, friends and team-mates.

"We appreciate the support and cooperation shown by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), team management and the India players who have been nothing but respectful during this tragic time."

ReutersCopyright: Reuters

The Australian flag flies at half mast at the Sydney Cricket Ground following the announcement Phillip Hughes' death.

Hughes was batting on the ground on Tuesday for South Australia against New South Wales in a Sheffield Shield match when he was struck by a short-pitched ball.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Several cricketers and supporters have recognised the effect of today's tragedy on 22-year-old Sean Abbott, whose bouncer it was that struck Hughes the fatal blow. Many have tweeted their support to the New South Wales and Sydney Sixers bowler:

Former England batsman Alec Stewart: Spare a thought for poor Sean Abbott too. He will need all the support possible to help him try and get through this. #CricketFamily

Former South African all-rounder Shaun Pollock: Absolutely shocked to hear the news of Phil Hughes passing away! Thoughts and prays are with his family as well as Sean Abbott!

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma: Saddest day in cricket fraternity. Rest in peace mate and Sean Abbott stay strong.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Nick Compton has given a heartfelt, intimate insight into the personality of Phillip Hughes, in a blog the England batsman wrote hours before Hughes' death was announced this morning. Compton spent time with Hughes as the overseas player for the Western Suburbs cricket team in Sydney.

Speaking on Sky Sports News, former England captain and Middlesex team-mate of Phillip Hughes, Andrew Strauss said: "The most sickening aspect of all of this is that he was a guy in the best years of his life and that was extinguished out of the blue.

"He was only 25 and to have achieved what he did in such a short period of time was extraordinary - to become the youngest player ever to score back-to-back hundreds as he did against South Africa.

"He was modifying his game all the time as well.

"It is a tragedy that he is gone in terms of cricket, but that pales into insignificance when compared to the loss of him as a person."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

The MCC flag at Lord's has been lowered in respect to Phillip Hughes, who played on the ground for Middlesex as well as in Test matches for Australia.

Reacting to the news of his death, MCC President David Morgan said: "This devastating loss has shocked the cricket world, and on behalf of MCC I offer our condolences to his family and friends.

"I well remember his first series in South Africa. Phillip was a fine cricketer and one who we will tragically never have the chance to see batting again here at the Home of Cricket.

"Cricket can be a dangerous sport, but for a talented young man to lose his life playing the game he loved is beyond most people's comprehension.

"Known as he was to so many at Lord's, this news will be hard felt."

Here's a selection of some of your tributes to Phillip Hughes from the BBC Sport Facebook page:

Anna Regan: Tragic...thinking of the bowler Sean Abbott too

Claire Hudd: So so sad. Especially hit my 11 year old who is also a very keen cricketer

Ant Wags: So sad. Utterly tragic loss. RIP from a Hampshire CC fan. Thoughts are with your family.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"Hughes was an immensely popular young cricketer. He played for three counties in England and this news will affect everyone involved with the game.

"Every now and then in cricket there is a more serious injury, but not this. So while accepting that there is an element of risk playing almost every sport, to lose a such a talented young player to just another ball bowled in just another game of cricket is a tragedy.

"Modern headgear has been drastically reduced since the early prototypes, enabling batsmen to play more comfortably and without compromising their agility.

"The conclusion will be the same: that this was a brutal, freakish accident, that ended a batsman's life, and will affect the young bowler, Sean Abbott, forever."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Former Australia all-rounder Tom Moody has told Sky Sports News Hughes was a "wonderful player" with his best years ahead of him:

"He showed us glimpses of what he was capable of doing in a couple of hundreds he scored for Australia, particularly against South Africa in Durban in 2011 he scored back to back hundreds. He was a special talent and a special bloke.

"You don't score 26 first class hundreds and three test hundreds in such a short career. His best was ahead of him and he had conquered so much already."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has given its reaction to Phillip Hughes' death.

Giles Clarke, ECB chairman, said: "This is sad and shocking news and the ECB joins England Cricket in extending its deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the family of Phillip as well as all the members of the cricketing family who regarded him as a friend or colleague.

"He was an extremely popular and hugely respected cricketer in England and Wales not only as a successful tourist with various Australian teams but also as a wonderfully talented county player with Hampshire, Middlesex and Worcestershire.

"He will be missed throughout the world of cricket and today our thoughts are with his family and all those involved in Australian cricket."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

The International Cricket Council (ICC) offered its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Phillip Hughes.

Chairman Narayanaswami Srinivasan said: "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."

Chief executive and former South Africa wicketkeeper 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."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Some of the world's most iconic cricketers have paid tribute to Phillip Hughes, who became a tragic victim of the game just days before his 26th birthday.

Sachin Tendulkar: Shocked to hear about Phil. Sad day for cricket. Deepest condolences to family, friends and well wishers. RIP.

Shane Warne: Just an absolute tragedy that Hughesy is no longer with us. He was such an awesome young man, RIP buddy, shattered...

Matthew Hayden: Rest peacefully our little brother. May God hold you in the palm of his hand forever. Deepest sympathies to the Hughes Family and friends.

Ian Botham: A very sad day for the world of cricket. So sorry for Phillip Hughes and his family. Spare a thought for Sean Abbott.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

The second day's play in the third and final Test between Pakistan and New Zealand has been abandoned following the news of Hughes' death.

New Zealand cricket tweeted: The @BLACKCAPS and @TheRealPCB have agreed to suspend play for today following death of Phil Hughes.

Share your tributes to Phillip Hughes with us.

Tweet @BBCSport using #bbcsportsday comment on the BBC Sport Facebook page or text 81111.

As the cricketing world pays tribute to Phillip Hughes, England players past and present have tweeted their reaction as they wake up to the news this morning.

Jimmy Anderson: Can't quite believe the news. Devastating. My thoughts go out to Phil Hughes' family and friends. Thoughts also with Sean Abbott.

Stuart Broad: Just can't believe it, heartbreaking stuff. RIP Phil Hughes.

Steven Finn: Devastated to hear of Phil Hughes' passing. Such a sad day for everyone. Condolences to his family and friends. Champion of a man! RIP

Former captain Michael Vaughan: Just far too young. He was only doing the job he loved... and was brilliant at it.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Team-mates past and present gathered following the news of Hughes' death.

Among them were all-rounder Steve Smith and former Test captain Ricky Ponting.

"Hughesy, Huey or Hue-Dog as he was known to many of his mates was much-loved," said Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland.

"He will forever be remembered as one of the elite few to have worn the Baggy Green cap - cap 408 to be precise."

AFPCopyright: AFP

Australia team doctor Peter Brukner said the cause of Phillip Hughes' death was "vertebral artery dissection".

He said the artery was compressed, causing it to split and cause "massive bleed" into the brain. The artery is in the neck.

Brukner said the injury was "freakish", adding: "Vertebral artery dissection is incredibly rare.

"If you look in the literature there is only 100 cases reported. There is only one previous example caused by a cricket ball."

Australia are due to begin a four-match Test series against India in Brisbane next Thursday.

A statement from the Indian side, issued via Cricket Australia, said it "joins the cricketing fraternity across the world in offering condolences to the family of Phillip Hughes, who has departed from our midst.

"In this moment of grief, we pray that they are bestowed with divine strength to overcome this unfortunate tragedy.

"As fellow cricketers we cherish the memories of playing along with him and deeply respect his contribution to the game of cricket."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

"Michael Clarke has been amazing, he's very good friends with Phil and the family," Cricket New South Wales' Malcolm Conn tells BBC Radio 5 live.

"He's done a remarkable job here through his sadness and showed true leadership, trying to help people through a tough time."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Malcolm Conn from Cricket New South Wales tells BBC Radio 5 live it will be Hughes' cheeky smile that will be his outstanding memory of the Australian batsman.

"He just had the most generous, infectious smile. All those back in his tiny community in Macksville who knew him, you couldn't help but be affected in a positive way. I'll remember that smile forever."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

News of Phillip Hughes' death broke around 04:30 GMT.

A statement from Cricket Australia team doctor Peter Brukner read:

"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."

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland has paid tribute to Hughes in a statement at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney:

"Hughesy was much loved, you only have to sift through the thousands of wishes of support from cricketers and supporters all over the world to understand the affection felt towards him.

"He will be remembered as one of the elite few to win a baggy green cap, cap number 408 to be precise.

"He was a hero to kids around the nation, particularly to those in his hometown of Macksville in New South Wales. He did them proud in his 26 Test matches, a tally that looked certain to grow, but now sadly never will. The national selectors had identified him as having a long-term future in the game.

"It was only a few days ago when selecting the Test team for the forthcoming series with India, our chief selector Rod Marsh said: 'He's a hell of a good batsman, he's a very good young player who has got 26 first class 100s'."

Cricket players, leading Australians and sports people have paid tribute to Phillip Hughes.

We'll be bringing you those tributes throughout the morning.

Here is a selection of some of the early reaction.

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

BBC Sport's Patrick Gearey looks back on Phillip Hughes' life in cricket.

ReutersCopyright: Reuters

Following news of Hughes' death earlier this morning, Australia team captain Michael Clarke read a statement on behalf of the Hughes family.

ALL SPORTCopyright: ALL SPORT

Some very sad news in the world of sport this morning as Australia Test batsman Phillip Hughes has died.

We'll be bringing you all the tributes and reaction to the news throughout this morning as well as asking for your own tributes.

Hughes, 25, played 26 Tests for Australia and also played for Hampshire, Middlesex and Worcestershire.

On Tuesday, while playing for South Australia against New South Wales, he was struck by a short-pitched ball from Sean Abbott.

He never regained consciousness.