Phillip Hughes' Death: Michael Clarke Breaks Down, Australia United in Grief
Australian captain Michael Clarke has been the biggest source of support and strength for the Phillip Hughes family, who lost their 25-year-old son to a freak cricket accident.
Phillip Hughes' death has shocked the entire cricket world but the tragedy drove Australian captain Michael Clarke to tears as he read a statement on behalf of the Hughes family. (In pics: Clarkes Breaks Down)
Twenty-five year old Hughes died on Thursday, two days after being hit by a bouncer in the course of a Sheffield Shield game. Clarke has since been a constant support for the deceased cricketer's family and was seen by Phillip's bedside at the St Vincent Hospital at almost all hours. (Hughes' Death a Sad Day for Cricket: Tendulkar)
Unshaven and looking exhausted, the 33-year-old Clarke even read out an emotional statement alongside Cricket Australia CEO, James Sutherland, hours after Hughes passed away. (In pics: Australia United in Grief)
On behalf of the family, Clarke said: "It has been a very difficult few days and we (the Hughes family) appreciate all the support 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." (Aussie PM Leads Tributes for Hughes)
Clarke thanked the medical staff of the St Vincent Hospital and Cricket Australia before walking away with visibly in tears. (India's Tour Game vs Cricket Australia XI Called-off)
Clarke was one of the first to arrive at the hospital after Hughes was rushed there on Tuesday and was also reported to have reached there as early as 6 AM on Thursday, perhaps hoping to walk out with good news. The Aussie skipper also counselled Sean Abott, whose rising delivery proved to be fatal for Hughes. (Australian Cricketers Mourn Hughes' Death)
Clarke's support for the Hughes family impressed CA doctor Peter Brukner, who revealed Hughes had been a like a little brother to Clarke. (Hughes' Death Hard to Digest for Contractor)
"Michael's efforts over the last 48 hours to support the family -- the family was obviously going through a difficult time -- but I'm not sure they would have coped without Michael's assistance. I was just enormously impressed at the work he did and the genuine care and love he gave to the Hughes family." (Pakistan vs New Zealand Play Suspended)
Clarke is racing against time to be fit for the first Test against India from December 4, which may be called-off following Hughes' death.