Phil Hughes receives emotional send-off in hometown of Macksville

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter

Published: December 3 2014 | 07:18

Last updated: December 4 2014 | 08:26

Phil Hughes is laid to rest in an emotional farewell led by Australia captain Michael Clarke.

Australia captain Michael Clarke paid an emotional tribute to former teammate Phil Hughes at the batsman's funeral this morning.

Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke pays his respect to Phillip Hughes during the Funeral Service for Phillip Hughes on December 3, 2014 in Macksville, Australia © Getty Images

The 25-year-old passed away at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney last week, just two days after being struck by a ball during a Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Around 2,000 people gathered to pay their respects to Hughes at a ceremony held at the same ground this morning, a little over a week on from the incident.

The service itself took place in Hughes's hometown of Macksville, and was broadcast on big screens in Australia's major cities.

During the service, which lasted for around 80 minutes, Aussies skipper Clarke broke down in tears saying: "Phillip's spirit, which is now part of our game forever, will act as a custodian of the sport we all love.

Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke pays tribute to Phillip Hughes during the Funeral Service for Phillip Hughes at Macksville High School Stadium on December 3, 2014 © Getty Images

"We must listen to it. We must cherish it. We must learn from it. We must dig in and get through to tea. And we must play on. So rest in peace my little brother. I will see you out in the middle."

Hughes played 26 Tests and 25 one-day internationals for Australia after making his debut in 2009.