The term, ‘Cricket Family’ has often been used as a feel-good factor by the optimists and diplomats of the cricketing world. But in the last 10 days, it found a whole new meaning. The accident and death of Phillip Hughes brought the entire cricket world together like never before. The overwhelming emotion of shock and pain transcended boundaries. The grief was widespread and heartfelt.
The Indian team, in Australia for the Test series, was affected by it too. When the horrifying news got around, the team bus was a somber place. Some players placed their bats out of their hotel rooms and ahead of the second practice game in Adelaide, the entire team observed a minute’s silence.
Eight members of the squad, including stand-in captain, Virat Kohli and team director, Ravi Shastri, made the long journey to Macksville to pay their final tributes to the departed cricketer.
And now, two days away from the start of the first Test, the Indian players opened up about the tragedy for the first time.
Here is what they had to say about the most unfortunate incident in the history of their sport.
Ishant Sharma: Whatever has happened is sad and we were all shocked when we heard the news. But we are professional cricketers and we have to move on.
Rohit Sharma: It was an unfortunate incident and it has saddened us all. But as Ishant said, the game must go on. Phil Hughes will be on everyone’s mind but we will also be focused on doing well when we get out on the park.
Murali Vijay: I personally feel that it was a freak accident and it is a sad thing to even discuss. It shouldn’t happen to anyone and it happened. As a team we all feel really hurt and moved. It was the first such incident that happened in cricket to my knowledge. When I think about his family and loved ones, I feel it is such a devastating thing that it shouldn’t be discussed like this.
Suresh Raina: Phil’s incident was a very sad moment. At the end of the day, we are all entertainers. We want to enjoy the game and want other people to enjoy watching us. No one intends to hurt anyone on purpose. It is a sport and it is meant to be enjoyed.
