Today marks the 10th death anniversary of Philip Hughes, an Australian cricketer who lost his life on November 27, 2014. The cricket world continues to mourn his death and remember him by cherishing his legacy as a talented batsman. Hughes was just 25 years old when he was hit by a bouncer ball by Sean Abbott on the neck during a Sheffield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Though the batsman was wearing a helmet, the ball hit the left ear which was not covered and resulted in a brain haemorrhage.
Despite prompt medical treatment and intensive care for two days, he was declared dead. The loss of the cricketer left the cricket fraternity in shock and sorrow. His death was a stark reminder of the risks involved in the game and of player safety. After this incident, major advancements were in protective gear.
Who was Philip Hughes?
Hughes was celebrated for his batting style which earned him a place in the history of cricket. He also became the youngest player to hit back-to-back centuries in a Test match at just 20 years old during a series against South Africa in 2009. His career included 25 one-day international matches and 26 Test matches.
Hughes was considered to be one the brightest players when the tragedy took place. He was also popular among his teammates. On his death anniversary, the global cricket community has come together to express their grief as tributes are pouring from fans, players, and officials globally.
In his honour, the phrase ”#63NotOutForever” became a symbol of remembering the score he was playing at when he got injured. The Hughes family and the cricketing bodies are working together to create awareness related to player safety in sports. To prevent such incidents in the future, the design of the helmet was improved to provide more neck protection.
Hughes’s family stated to ESPNcricinfo, that he had a profound impact on those who were around him, not only as a talented cricketer but also as a son, friend, and brother.
(With inputs from ANI)