Former cricketers extend support to Sean Abbott

Sean Abbott being supported by Phillip Hughes’ family

The thoughts of Phillip Hughes’ extended family are with Sean Abbott, the bowler who delivered the ball that struck the former Australian Test opener on Tuesday.As Hughes’ family and the cricket world mourned the death of one of Australia’s finest young players, there was also considerable support for Abbott.

Phillip Hughes’ sister has joined in an outpouring of support for young fast bowler Sean Abbott, who unleashed the delivery which felled the Australian cricket star three days ago. A close family friend of the Hugheses said the family wanted Abbott to know he had done nothing wrong. “We really want to support the bowler, Sean. He’s someone who we’re also considering at this time,” said Anthony Miles, who describes himself as Hughes’ “adopted older cousin”.

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland and former Test and NSW paceman Stuart Clark were among those to offer support to him after Hughes’ death.Abbott visited the Sydney hospital where Hughes died on Thursday and was comforted by Australia captain Michael Clarke and Hughes’ sister, Megan. Cricket Australia on Friday pledged continuing support for Abbott as cricketers around the world offered sympathy and encouragement for the young paceman.

The Australian Cricket Players’ Association said Abbott was being counseled and closely monitored.Australia team doctor Peter Brukner said Clarke had spent a significant amount of time with Abbott at Sydney’s St. Vincent’s Hospital on Thursday.

Former Test captain Mark Taylor said he hoped Abbott would be able to recover and continue his career.”I hope he can forgive himself because the cricket community don’t feel that he needs forgiving,”
Sean Abbott being supported by Phillip Hughes’ family