UK politicians have joined sporting stars in paying tribute to the Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes who died in hospital two days after being struck by a ball while playing in a match.
The 25-year-old passed away at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, where he underwent surgery and was being monitored in the intensive care unit. He never regained consciousness.
MPs in the House of Commons paid tribute to him. At the beginning of culture, media and sport questions, Labour's Sharon Hodgson (Washington and Sunderland West) said: "Can I just offer my condolences on the very sad loss this morning of the cricketer Phil Hughes. I think the thoughts of the whole House will be with him and his family."
Hughes, who was wearing a protective helmet, collapsed face first onto the pitch after being hit by a ball on the rear lower left side of his head from pace bowler Sean Abbott as he attempted a pull shot.
Australia team doctor Peter Brukner said the player, who had played in England for Hampshire, Middlesex and Worcestershire, suffered a "vertebral artery dissection". He said the artery had been compressed, causing it to split and leading to a "massive bleed" into the brain.
At Westminster, Shadow minister Clive Efford said: "Can I associate myself with the comments of my honourable friend regarding Phil Hughes and in particular Sean Abbott, who is the bowler involved in that tragic accident. He must be feeling very terrible indeed."
Conservative Robin Walker (Worcester) told the House Hughes was "very fondly" remembered from his time with Worcestershire.
Culture Secretary Sajid Javid said he was saddened to hear of Hughes's death. He said: "I'm sure I speak on behalf of the whole of the House to say that our thoughts are with his teammates, friends and family."
The England team issued a statement which read: "Our deepest sympathies go out to Phil Hughes' family, friends and team-mates at this incredibly sad time.
"Phil was admired and respected by all he played with and against, and will never be forgotten by the cricket community."
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