Phillip Hughes' Fate Unites Cricket Community in Prayer

Australian batsman Phil Hughes on Tuesday, was hit by a bouncer during a Sheffield match and was rushed to a hospital where he is in a critical condition. The cricket community was left shocked but it has come together to pray for the 25-year-old's speedy and complete recovery.

Hughes was batting for South Australia against New South Wales at the Sydney Cricket Ground when the unfortunate and horrific accident happened. Batting on 63 and with a helmet, the batsman tried to hook a rising delivery from pacer Sean Abbott but misjudged it completely. He stood hunched for moments before collapsing on the pitch. (Read: Phil Hughes undergoes surgery, is critical)

While Hughes was given treatment on the field and was taken to a nearby hospital in a ventilated state, the shocking news sent ripples across cricketing circles. Australia captain Michael Clarke rushed to the hospital to be wit Hughes' family while several others tweeted their best wishes.

Former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist prayed that Hughes gets the strength to recover from his accident.

Dear Lord, if ever the need for footprints in the sand, it's now #PhilHughes #courage #strength

- Adam Gilchrist (@gilly381) November 25, 2014

Coach of the national Australian cricket team - Darren Lehmann - also expressed his shock while showing his support for the player and his family.

Our thoughts and prayers are with phil and his family! He is a great fighter and a great young man!

- Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) November 25, 2014

Attacking Australian batsman David Warner, who was on the field during the accident and had rushed to help Hughes, was sure that his 'little mate' was a champion and would come back strong.

Thoughts are with my little mate Hughsy and his family. He is a fighter and a champion and he will get through this. Praying for you buddy.

- David Warner (@davidwarner31) November 25, 2014

India batsman and captain for the 1st Test against Australia - Virat Kohli - was batting in Adelaide during the time of the accident. While he hit a confident half-century in the drawn tour match against Cricket Australia XI, he rushed to tweet his support after the match.

Thoughts and prayers with Phil Hughes all the way. Fight it out mate. You are a top man. All the strength goes out to you and your family.

- Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) November 25, 2014

Even Ashes rival James Anderson said he was praying for Hughes.

Awful news about Phil Hughes. Sickening to hear. Praying for him and his family.

- James Anderson (@jimmy9) November 25, 2014

Several other current and former cricketers also sent their message as Hughes battles in the Intensive Care Unit of a Sydney hospital.