Phil Hughes remains in critical condition after emergency surgery

Australia batsman Phil Hughes remained in critical condition in a Sydney hospital on Tuesday after undergoing emergency surgery for a sickening head injury sustained when struck by a ball during a domestic match.

The 25-year-old was transferred to St Vincent's hospital's intensive care unit after surgery and his condition was not expected to become clear for 24-48 hours.

"He is still critical, he is in ICU," a hospital spokesman said.

[SPORTING WORLD RALLIES BEHIND HUGHES]

Cricket

'That's the truth' - Archer to consider retirement from cricket if injury setbacks continue

16 hours ago

Fitted with a ventilator to aid his breathing, Hughes was rushed from the Sydney Cricket Ground in an induced coma, having collapsed to the ground when struck in the helmet by a short-pitched delivery from New South Wales fast bowler Sean Abbott.

Hughes, touted to replace injured Australia captain Michael Clarke for next week's test match against India, had scored 63 runs for South Australia before being hit.

Apparently dazed by the blow, the left-hander stooped over and put his hands on his knees before falling face first onto the pitch, causing players and medical staff to rush to his aid.

TWEET

"Thoughts are with Phil Hughes. Terrible to see and just shows how dangerous our game can be," Australia legspinner James Muirhead tweeted.

After the blow, Hughes was placed on a motorised stretcher and taken to the boundary where medical staff performed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation before he was rushed to hospital by ambulance.

The match was called off for the day.

Phillip Hughes of South Australia lays on a stretcher after being struck in the head by a delivery during day one of the Sheffield Shield match between New South Wales and South Australia

Image credit: Getty Images

Australia captain Michael Clarke arrived at the hospital to check on Hughes' condition, while Hughes' mother and sister were also at the hospital.

South Australia Cricket's high performance director Tim Nielsen later issued a statement on behalf of the family.

"As you all will be aware Phil Hughes suffered an injury this afternoon," the statement read.

Tweet

"He is presently undergoing surgery and the outcome of that surgery is unlikely to be known in the next 24-48 hours.

"In the meantime, we would really appreciate if you look after his family and friends and respect their privacy please."

Tweet

News of the injury sparked a wave of sympathy from the global cricketing community and fans on social media.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with phil and his family! He is a great fighter and a great young man!" Australia coach Darren Lehmann tweeted.

Hughes, who has played 26 test matches and 25 one-day internationals for Australia, was touted as a potential replacement for the injured Clarke for the first test against India in Brisbane next week.

Tweet

New Zealand v England

Devine's unbeaten century seals consolation New Zealand win in ODI series against England

07/04/2024 at 11:07

New Zealand v England

New Zealand captain Devine to return from injury for third ODI against England

06/04/2024 at 08:05

Cricket

Archer ruled out of Test cricket until 2025, T20 World Cup ‘absolutely’ realistic goal

05/04/2024 at 14:46