Cricket Australia is preparing to pay tribute to Phillip Hughes on the 10th anniversary of his tragic passing. Flags will fly at half-mast, and players will don black armbands during all upcoming Sheffield Shield games as part of the commemoration.
A Unified Tribute Across Australia
The tribute begins with Saturday’s Sheffield Shield round, kicking off two weeks of remembrance for Hughes, who tragically passed away just days before his 26th birthday in 2014.
Hughes’ former team, South Australia, will face Western Australia in Adelaide, while his childhood team, New South Wales, hosts Tasmania at the SCG. Queensland will also play against Victoria at the Gabba.
- Black Armbands: Players across all three matches will wear black armbands.
- Moments of Silence: A moment of silence will be observed on day four of each game.
- Coinciding Dates: The Brisbane and Sydney games align with the 10-year anniversary of Hughes’ death on November 27, 2014.
National Tribute at the Adelaide Test
The commemoration will extend to the Adelaide Test match between Australia and India starting December 6. This date marks nearly 10 years since Test cricket resumed after Hughes’ passing.
Cricket Australia (CA) has collaborated with Hughes’ family to create a special documentary, which will air before play begins at the Adelaide Test.
Remembering Phillip Hughes
Hughes played 26 Tests for Australia and was considered a long-term prospect for the national team. His untimely death, caused by being struck by a ball at the SCG, left a deep scar on the cricketing world.
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley emphasized the importance of honoring Hughes’ life and achievements:
“We wanted to ensure that the Hughes family were comfortable with any commemorations and that we celebrate Phillip’s life and incredible achievements appropriately.”
Off the Field: Hughes’ Lasting Legacy
Hughes’ family continues to manage his angus cattle farm, Four 0 Eight, on the NSW north coast. His legacy lives on, not just in cricket but also in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.