Sean Abbott
Sean Abbott took 6-14 on his return following the death of Phil Hughes Getty

Sean Abbott has marked his return to competitive cricket with the best bowling performance of his career following the death of Phil Hughes.

The New South Wales bowler received a standing ovation after taking six wickets for 14 runs in a victory over Queensland on Friday 12 December at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Abbott, 22, had been away from the game receiving counselling after he bowled the bouncer that fatally struck Hughes in November, triggering mourning in the cricket world.

Abbott's New South Wales coach, Trever Bayliss, said: "To do what he did really showed the character that he has.

"He was probably one of the guys who handled the situation better than some of the other guys.

"To do what he did today showed the character that he has got as well. To run and bowl fast - he got the reverse swing this afternoon.

"Everyone was just so happy for him, after what happened two weeks ago, so hopefully that puts him back on the road to more success later this season."

Abbott received unequivocal support from the cricketing world following last month's tragedy.

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