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Johannesburg - The Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (Fica) has expressed great sadness over the death of Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes.
"I have been in contact with a number of players and players' associations around the world who have all expressed shock and sadness over Phil's death" said Fica executive chairperson, Tony Irish.
"Phil was a popular and respected cricketer not only in Australia and among Australian players but also among other players around the world.
Cricket Australia announced Hughes had died on Thursday.
Tragic loss
The batsman was hit on the neck by a rising delivery from bowler Sean Abbott while batting for South Australia against New South Wales at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday.
The blow caused bleeding into the brain and he never regained consciousness following his injury.
"I speak on behalf of the world's professional cricketers in saying what a tragic loss this is of a young man who would have had many years of international cricket ahead of him," Irish said.
"We would like to express our heartfelt condolences to Phil's family, especially his mother, Virginia, his father, Greg and his sister and brother, Megan and Jason."
Hughes, who would have turned 26 on Sunday, was not in pain and was surrounded by his family and close friends, Australian team doctor Peter Brukner said in a statement.
Freak accident
South African cricketers took to social media to express their sadness when they woke up to the news.
"What can one say?? :-( :-( Pretty sh*t news to wake up to. #RIPPhillipHughes," Wayne Parnell tweeted.
Former Protea fast bowler Shaun Pollock extended his sympathy to the fast bowler whose delivery caused the freak accident.
"Absolutely shocked to hear the news of Phil Hughes passing away! Thoughts and prayers are with his family as well as Sean Abbott!" Pollock tweeted.
Ex South African cricketer Mark Boucher, who lost his eye after an injury he picked up keeping wicket in a warm-up game against Somerset two years ago, also mentioned Abbott in his tweet.
"Lost for words! Holding onto the fact that he is in a better world right now! RIP buddy! Thinking of Sean and the family! God do your work!" Boucher said.
The world's top-ranked Test bowler, Dale Steyn tweeted: "Totally saddened by the passing of our cricket brother and friend Phil Hughes. Terrible loss! Deepest condolences 2 his family! #RIPHughes."
JP Duminy: "May you RIP Hughesey. Words cannot explain one's feelings right now. Prayers are with his family, friends and teammates.. #RIPPhilHughes"
AB de Villiers: "Heartbroken! A very dark day. You will be missed, Phil Hughes. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family & friends."
Vernon Philander: "My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Philip Hughes. May God be with you during this difficult time. RIP"
Faf du Plessis: "No man...shocking news that Phil Hughes has passed away. Can't believe it. Everyone close to him will be in my prayers.#cricketingfamily"
Cricket SA: "Our sincerest & most heartfelt condolences go out to Phil Hughes' family, friends, teammates, @CricketAus & fans. #RIP"
