Earlier today, Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke delivered a touching tribute to his friend and former teammate Phil Hughes, whose death earlier this week stunned the cricketing world.
Clarke told the assembled press at the SCG “I’ll do my best, guys”, before reading a statement expressing condolences to Hughes’ loved ones and friends, and remembering the player who “epitomised what the baggy green was about.”
“Apart from when he was home on the farm with his beloved cattle, Hughesy was at his happiest when he was playing cricket for his country with his mates,” Clarke said, fighting back tears.
“Things were always put in perspective when Hughesy said, ‘Where else would you rather be, boys, than playing cricket for your country?’ We’re going to miss that cheeky grin and that twinkle in his eye.”
Clarke said that Cricket Australia have agreed to retire Hughes’ one-day international shirt number 64 in honour of their fallen teammate. “Our dressing room will never be the same,” he said. “We loved him and always will. Rest in peace ‘Brussy.”
Cricket fans around the world have paid tribute to Hughes in their own way, by resting their bats outside.
Photo: Mark Kolbe via Getty Images
