Players, fans pay tribute to Phil Hughes on ninth anniversary of his passing

Cricket News: Players, fans take to social media to pay tribute to Phil Hughes who passed away on this day in 2014

Nine years have passed, but it still doesn’t feel real. One of cricket’s gentlemen and most exciting talents was taken away far too soon on the 27th of November, 2014 in one of – if not the most – saddest days in the sport.

And he is still remembered fondly today. After being struck whilst batting on 63 for South Australia in a Sheffield Shield game at the Sydney Cricket Ground, everyone hoped Phil Hughes would recover. But, soon tears flowed and hearts wrenched at the news filtering through that the 25-year old had passed away.

It was truly a solemn time. Australia’s Test series against India was postponed, with “408” painted vividly on the Adelaide Oval turf. First class cricket was called off, as was club, park and junior cricket around the county. His funeral service was a day never to be forgotten, with then Australia captain Michael Clarke’s tribute etched in the minds of millions.

And, of course, everyone was concerned with the wellbeing of his family after experiencing the kind of loss you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy. Nine years on, Hughes’ legacy lives on, with players and fans pay tribute to one of the game’s most lovable characters.

Players, fans pay tribute to Phil Hughes on anniversary of his tragic death

Michael Clarke took to Instagram to pay tribute to his good mate. As did current players Steve Smith and David Warner. Former Australian player and coach Darren Lehmann was also one of many to pay tribute to Hughes, who thrilled one-and-all in his 26 Tests, 25 ODIs, 35 T20s, 114 First-Class, and 91 List A matches.