The 25-year-old suffered a serious head injury when struck by a bouncing delivery during a Sheffield Shield match against NSW on Tuesday. 

Hughes had been placed in an induced coma following surgery to relieve pressure on his brain.

People throughout the cricket world have stood vigil for the vibrant young left-hander, who was tipped to be named as the replacement for Australian captain Michael Clarke should be become unavailable for the upcoming four-Test series against India.

Clarke was among the many players, officials and past stars to sit by the star’s bedside at St Vincent’s Hospital in Darlinghurst, where he was taken following the incident.

After Hughes was struck down by the delivery, treated on the field and taken to hospital, the match in progress was abandoned, as were the other matches being played around the country.

Hughes was wearing a helmet but the short-pitched delivery, like many he’d negotiated successfully before for his state and country, missed the protection.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family, and the bowler Sean Abbott, at this tragic time.

Cricket Australia confirmed the devastating news in a statement from team doctor Peter Brukner.

“It is my sad duty to inform you that a short time ago Phillip Hughes passed away,” Dr Brukner’s statement read.

“He never regained consciousness following his injury on Tuesday.

“He was not in pain before he passed and 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.”