Bengaluru: As the world of sport shuddered with the news of Australian cricketer Phil Hughes’ death on what will go down as a dark Thursday, it also mourned the loss of a talent in such tragic circumstances.
Read: Young Australian batsman Phillip Hughes dies from head injury
Terming it one of the worst days for cricket, former India captain Rahul Dravid said, “It is a really sad and depressing day for cricket. It is really hard, probably one of the worst days.
“It is hard to come to terms with something like this happening to a cricketer on a cricket field and at this time all our thoughts are with his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace. It is going to take a long time to get over this for everyone all over the cricketing world.
”Another former skipper Anil Kumble, who interacted with the 25-year-old during the latter’s brief stint with the Mumbai Indians last year said, “It is shocking, I’m devastated. I was hoping desperately, like so many across the world, that he would come out of it.
“Unfortunately, that was not to be. It is incredibly sad for all of us, and particularly sad for his family as well,” said the Mumbai Indians’ mentor.
Read: Cricket family mourns loss of Phillip Hughes
Speaking about his association with the deceased batsman, Kumble added, “We took him in the auction but given the composition of the side and the fact that we could only play four overseas players, we realised that it would be difficult for us to fit him into the XI. He also realised that and asked to be released so he could go and prepare for the Ashes.
He was with us for a short time, but he was a fantastic person. He was a very lovable youngster who gelled with everyone.”
Watch: Emotional Michael Clarke reads a statement from Phillip Hughes' family
Former India speedster Javagal Srinath said: “My prayers are with Hughes’ family and friends. It’s an irreplaceable loss. If the ball had struck him one inch here and there or a micro second of early movement, he would have survived. It’s so strange, you tend to become so philosophical sometimes.”
