What happens when the game that is a joy turns into heartbreak? On November 27, 2014, the cricket World faced an unimaginable incident.
Philip Hughes’s death! An extremely talented and young Australian cricketer.
He lost his life at the age of 25 after being struck by a bouncer. His death not only shocked the sporting community but also the whole world, leaving behind a void that can never be filled.
Let’s revisit that day that changed cricketing history forever.
Phillip Hughes potential
image credit: Reddit
Phillip Hughes was more than just a cricketer; he was an inspiring figure in Australia.
Known for his fearless batting and humble personality, Hughes made his Test debut against South Africa in 2009 at just 20 years old.
He quickly gained global recognition by scoring two centuries in that match.
Hughes seemed set for great things in Australian cricket for years to come; however, life proved otherwise.
The unfortunate incident at SCG
On 25 November 2014, Hughes was batting for South Australia in a Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground and attempted to hook Abbott at 63.
Unfortunately, however, he missed, and the bouncer hit the side of the head at just under 1″ from where his helmet rested.
Hughes suffered a rare and severe brain hemorrhage.
He fell unconscious and was taken to the hospital, where he had surgery. Unfortunately, he never fully regained consciousness. Two days later, on November 27th, 2014, he passed away.
An Open Casket for a Legend
On December 3, 2014, in Macksville, New South Wales, Hughes’ funeral took place with great emotion, drawing many cricketers from around the glob,e like Michael Clarke, Steve Smith, and Virat Kohli, as attendees.
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott himself could not miss attending as well and expressed that Hughes had had a profound effect on our nation.
One by one, friends and loved ones said goodbye to someone they considered their friend – someone whose life and cricket journey had meant so much to all of them.
The Impact on Cricket
Hughes’ tragic death led to significant changes in cricket safety.
It prompted a global discussion on helmet design and player protection. Cricket boards and manufacturers began focusing on creating helmets with better coverage to prevent similar incidents.
The cricket community gave a very simple yet fitting tribute to Hughes: the phrase “63 Not Out Forever”, which reflects his last score and the life he left behind.
A Legacy That Lived On
Phillip Hughes might be long dead, but his spirit lives; he reminded everyone of the wonder and fragility of the game of cricket, inviting players and cricket fans into the cricket field and off again to cherish every second of it all.
How do you remember Phillip Hughes? Share your thoughts and keep his legacy alive in your heart.
Reference:
timesofindia.com
ESPNcricinfo.com
hindustantimes.com
Want To Get Updated?
Keep up with the latest updates on sports, like Cricket, Football, Table Tennis, Shooting, Squash, Lawn Tennis, Karate, Taekwondo, and Martial Arts.
