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Amid devastation over the death of Australian cricketer Phil Hughes, the sporting world is rallying around the player who delivered the ball which fatally struck him.
Sean Abbott, 22, was pictured looking distraught outside the hospital after it was announced Hughes had passed away two days after the accident.
Pace bowler Abbott bowled the bouncer which hit Hughes on the back, lower left side of the head during a match at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday.
Sean Abbott pictured outside the hospital where cricketer Phil Hughes died
Former England great and Strictly Come Dancing winner Darren Gough said: “Poor family are going through, his friends, his teammates and the bowler Sean Abbott. Stay strong people.”
BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew pointed out: “That ball could have been bowled at any time in any game. Tragic that it should end like this for the Hughes family, and for Sean Abbott.”
Sir Ian Botham, former England captain tweeted condolences to Hughes’ family, adding: “Spare a thought for Sean Abbott.”
Phil Hughes died two days after being struck by the ball
Abbott wept after it was announced Hughes had passed away
Sports presenter Kirsty Gallacher said: “So sad to hear of cricketer Philip Hughes’ passing, tragic. Such a difficult time too for Sean Abbot – who’s delivery struck him.”
Kevin Pietersen said: “Sean Abbott – thinking of you too, mate!”
Hughes, 25, died after injuries suffered while batting for South Australia against New South Wales at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday.