phil hughes cricket
Phil Hughes of South Australia falls to the ground after being struck in the head by a ball during day one of the Sheffield Shield match against New South Wales at Sydney Cricket Ground Getty

Australian cricketer Phil Hughes has died from a head injury he sustained three days ago while playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The 25-year-old died on Thursday morning, Cricket Australia team doctor Peter Brukner said in a statement, Australia's 9News reported.

The former Australian international was struck on the head by a bouncer from New South Wales fast bowler Sean Abbott, and fell to the ground.

Hughes underwent emergency surgery after he was knocked out, but never regained consciousness.

The incident took place during the Sheffield Shield match between South Australia and New South Wales. Hughes was trying to hook Sean Abbott's bouncer, but the delivery deceived the left-hander and hit the back of his head leading to serious head injury.

The official statement said Hughes was not in pain at the time of his death and that he was surrounded by his family and close friends.

"As a cricket community we mourn his loss and extend our deepest sympathies to Phillip's family and friends at this incredibly sad time.

"Cricket Australia kindly asks that the privacy of the Hughes family, players and staff be respected," Brukner said.

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