Aussie cricket star Phil Hughes in critical condition after head injury

Australian cricketer Phil Hughes is in a critical condition in hospital this morning after being hit in the head during a match Down Under.

Hughes was batting in a Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground when a bouncer from Sean Abbott struck him on the helmet. Hughes stood briefly before slumping to the ground as players surrounded him and called for medical attention. Play was suspended and later abandoned as paramedics worked to resuscitate Hughes on the field for more than half an hour before he was taken to hospital to undergo surgery. He is now in an induced coma, with doctors insisting it will be 24-48 hours before any further outcomes can be determined. Test captain Michael Clarke rushed to the hospital, while other cricketers from Australia and beyond have tweeted their support.

Thoughts and prayers are with Phil Hughes and his family. — Eoin Morgan (@Eoin16) November 25, 2014

Thinking of you mate! Hope everything is ok with u Hughesy — Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) November 25, 2014

Sad to hear about Phil Hughes,im sure he'll pull up ok. — herschelle gibbs (@hershybru) November 25, 2014

Sad to hear about my little mate Hughsey. Thoughts go out to him and his family. Stay strong brother! X — Peter Siddle (@petersiddle403) November 25, 2014