Phil Hughes collapses after getting hit by a bouncer
The Sheffield Shield match between South Australia and New South Wales saw a disconcerting incident as left-handed batsman Phil Hughes collapsed to the ground after being hit by a bouncer from right-arm fast bowler Sean Abbott.
People who were at the ground and saw the incident are stating that Hughes stood with one hand on his knee for a couple of seconds before falling flat face-first on the ground. Everyone present at the stadium were in a state of shock as the Australian batsman remained on the floor for a long time.
The 25-year-old was given medical attention immediately as a medivac helicopter arrived on the pitch carrying specialist doctors. In the end, he was rushed to St. Vincent’s Hospital by an ambulance.
Hughes was batting on 63 when the incident occurred at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), when he misjudged a short ball from Abbott. All players, who were visibly stunned by what had happened, left the field with South Australia at 136/2 in their first innings.
The South Australian is said to have been breathing when the ambulance took him to hospital. There are unconfirmed reports that he had a strong pulse, which was not responsive. He underwent head surgery and is currently in the intensive care unit (ICU), with doctors stating that no more information can be provided for the next 24 hours.
Hughes last represented Australia in the ODI series against Pakistan last month, with his last Test appearance coming in England in last year’s Ashes. He was tipped to be selected for the first Test against India, with Australian skipper Michael Clarke continuing to be a major doubt due to a hamstring injury.
Cricketers from across the globe have started sending their best wishes to Hughes.