It’s almost hard to believe it’s been six years since the tragic passing of Australian cricketer, Phillip Hughes.
On this day, the heartbreaking anniversary of his death, fellow teammate and close friend, Michael Clarke has shared a touching tribute.
Taking to Instagram, the former Australian cricket captain shared a throwback photo of him with Phil, who was just 25 years old after he died from an accidental blow to his neck from a cricket ball.
Michael shared this photo with Phil.
(Instagram)“I’m still wearing our hats bro. Miss ya everyday,” Michael wrote.
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He also shared a cartoon graphic to his Instagram story with a simple blue-heart emoji.
Mates, forever.
(Instagram)On November 25 2014, Phil was rushed by ambulance to at St Vincent’s Hospital in a critical condition and immediately underwent surgery to relieve pressure on the brain after being struck in the neck by a ball from New South Wales bowler Sean Abbott during a 2014 match.
Two days later, surrounded by family and friends, the 25-year-old tragically passed away as the heartbreaking decision to switch off his life support was made.
A statement from team Doctor Peter Brukner read: “It is my sad duty to inform you that a short time ago Phillip Hughes passed away.”
“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.”
Two days after the news of his passing was confirmed Michael broke down in tears, overcome with grief as he addressed the media.
“Words cannot express the loss we all feel as a team right now. To Greg, Virginia, Jason and Megan, we share in the deep pain that you’re feeling,” a tearful Michael said.
“We are going to miss that cheeky grin, and that twinkle in his eye. He epitomised what the Baggy Green is about and what it means to us all.
“The world lost one of its great blokes this week and we are all poorer for it. Our promise to Hughes’s family is that we will do everything we can to honour his memory.
“Last night I asked Cricket Australia if Hughes’s Australian one-day international shirt number, 64, could be retired, to which they agreed. That means so much.
And he will remain 64, not out, forever.
Michael and Phillip shared an incredibly close bond with Michael acting as a mentor figure to the up-and-coming cricket star.
(Image: Getty)
