Cricket's darkest day: Australian International Cricketer Phillip Hughes Dies Aged 25

The world of cricket is in mourning following the tragic death of Australian batsman Phillip Hughes at the age of 25.

Hughes, who was hit on the head by a bouncer (Read here) while batting in a Sheffield Shield match for South Australia in Sydney on Tuesday, died in hospital earlier on Thursday as a result of his injuries.

Speaking at the news conference, Australia team doctor Peter Brukner explained that Hughes died as a result of 'vertebral artery dissection'. 

Bowler Sean Abbott, whose bouncer hit Hughes in a freak accident, was in tears as he left St Vincent's Hospital on Thursday

The Australia batsman's parents, Greg and Virginia Hughes, and sister Megan in Sydney following the devastating news

The Australian flag flies at half mast under lights at the Sydney Cricket Ground following the announcement

The cricketing world has reacted following the death of Hughes after he was struck by a short-pitched ball