Phillip Hughes' family have said cricket was his life and they are devastated by his death.
An emotional Test captain and former teammate Michael Clarke read a statement on behalf of the Hughes family after their 25-year-old son and brother died on Thursday.
"We are devastated by the loss of our much-loved son Phillip," Clarke read at a press conference at St Vincent's hospital where Hughes died, two days after being hit in the head by a bouncer while batting for South Australia at the SCG.
"Cricket was Phillip's life and we as a family share that love of the game with him.
"We would like to thank all the medical and nursing staff at St Vincent's Hospital and Cricket NSW medical staff for their great efforts with Phillip.
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"We love you."
Clarke, described by Australian team doctor Peter Brukner as a big brother to Hughes, said Hughes' parents Virginia and Greg and siblings Megan and Jason were thankful for the support from the cricketing fraternity and beyond.
"It's been a very difficult few days and we appreciate all the support we have received from family, friends, players, Cricket Australia, St Vincent's Hospital and the general public," Clarke read.
The Australian Cricketers Association chief executive Alistair Nicholson said cricketers far and wide had been rocked by the "devastating event".
"Phillip Hughes died playing the sport that he loved amongst those who loved him," Nicholson said.
"His final shot typified his approach to the game - aggressive, positive and defiant.
"Our thoughts and prayers remain with his family and the players."
Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland said the word tragedy is used too often in sport, but this was a true tragedy.
"Phil has been taken away from us to soon," Sutherland said.
"It's an understatement to say we're completely devastated. The impact of Phillip's loss is enormous.
"He will forever be remembered as one of the elite few to have worn the baggy green cap, cap number 408.
"In the darkest hours, cricket puts its collective arms around the Hughes family.
"We offer our love and endless support."
