'Words cannot express our sorrow': Phillip Hughes' family thanks the Australian public for its support

Phillip Hughes’ family has taken out a full-page newspaper ad to thank the Australian public for their support following his tragic death.

Appearing in News Corp papers across the country today, the message sees the family expressing its gratitude for the huge outpouring of grief that followed the 25-year-old cricketer’s death after being struck in the head while batting in a Sheffield Shield game.

Aussie skipper Michael Clarke, who described Hughes as his “little brother”, is singled out for particular thanks.

“Words cannot express our sorrow at Phillip’s passing, but your love and support has given us great strength at this very difficult time,” the message reads.

“Gregory, Virginia, Jason and Megan Hughes wish to express our sincere appreciation to the people of Australia following the passing of our dearly beloved son and brother, Phillip.”

The message comes a day after Australia won a remarkable First Test in Adelaide, which had been rescheduled following Hughes’ funeral last week.

Spinner Nathan Lyon took seven wickets on day five as his side snatched victory from a defiant Indian team, lead by skipper Virat Kohli’s twin hundreds.

The Test was marked with a number of tributes to the fallen batsman, with the Aussies singing the traditional team victory song “Under the Southern Cross I Stand” over a painted 408 on the Adelaide Oval turf, a reference to Hughes’ test number.

THE MESSAGE FROM THE HUGHES FAMILY

Words cannot express our sorrow at Phillip’s passing, but your love and support has given us great strength at this very difficult time.

Gregory, Virginia, Jason and Megan Hughes wish to express our sincere appreciation to the people of Australia following the passing of our dearly beloved son and brother, Phillip.

In particular we wish to thank:

Our family and friends for being here for us.

The community of Macksville including Fr Michael Alcock, the management and staff of the Macksville Ex-Services Club and Macksville High School.

Michael Clarke, past and present Australian and State cricketers and the extended Australian cricket family.

Cricket Australia, South Australian Cricket Association and Cricket NSW.

St Vincent’s Hospital and the wonderful medical staff who cared for Phillip.