Tony Abbott leads tributes for Phil Hughes and says 'we should also remember Sean Abbott'

High-profile names from the sport and entertainment world have shared their condolences

Tony Abbott has celebrated the life of cricketer Phil Hughes, who died following head injuries, aged 25.

He was struck on the head by a ball from pace bowler Sean Abbott while batting for South Australia against New South Wales at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday.

The batsman was wearing a protective helmet at the time of the accident.

“Phillip Hughes was a young man living out his dreams,’’ said the Australian Prime Minister.

“His death is a very sad day for cricket and a heartbreaking day for his family.”

He also noted that the public should shares sympathies for Abbot, following Hughes’ untimely death.

“We should also remember Sean Abbott who would be absolutely devastated at this tragic accident,” he said.

“The thought that a player in his prime should be killed playing our national game is shocking and sobering. We should be conscious of the risks that our sportspeople run to give us the pleasure that they do. What happened has touched millions of Australians.

“For a young life to be cut short playing our national game seems a shocking aberration. He was loved, admired and respected by his teammates and by legions of cricket fans.

“Australians’ thoughts and prayers are with the Hughes family.’’

Australian coach Darren Lehmann, cricketers Adam Gilchrist, Sachin Tendulka, Mark Boucher and Abraham Benjamin de Villiers also paid tribute on Twitter – some of which offered their condolences to Abbot.

High-profile names outside the sports world also tweeted of their sympathies, including Hugh Laurie, Piers Morgan, Ed Miliband and David Morrissey.

Australian team captain Michael Clarke tried not to cry this morning as he read this statement on behalf of Hughes' family:

“This statement is on behalf of Greg [Phil’s father], Virginia [mother], Jason [brother] and [sister] Megan Hughes.

“We are devastated by the loss of our much loved son and brother Phillip.

“It’s been a devastating few days. We appreciate the support we have received from family, friends, players, Cricket Australia and the general public.

“Cricket was Phillip’s life and we as a family shared that love of the game with him.

“We would like to thank all of the nursing staff at St Vincent’s Hospital and for Cricket NSW medical staff for their great efforts with Phillip. We love you.”