Australians and cricketers around the world have turned to social media to pay tribute to Phillip Joel Hughes who tragically passed away after a freak incident. Hughes was struck in the head by a cricket ball while playing in a Sheffield Shield match for South Australia against New South Wales at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday. Cricket Australia said in a statement on Thursday afternoon that Hughes had died.  "He never regained consciousness following his injury on Tuesday," the statement said. "He was not in pain before he passed and was surrounded by his family and close friends. "As a cricket community we mourn his loss and extend our deepest sympathies to Phillip's family and friends at this incredibly sad time. "Cricket Australia kindly asks that the privacy of the Hughes family, players and staff be respected." Shortly after this announcement tributes to Hughes poured in on social media.