Australian Test batsman Hughes knocked out by bouncer

SYDNEY: Australian Test batsman Phil Hughes was stretchered off after being hit on the head by a vicious bouncer in a Sheffield Shield match Tuesday, with reports saying he collapsed face-first.

Looking to press his case for a recall to the Test side, the South Australian opener, who was wearing a helmet, had scored a composed 63 when he was hit by a ball from Sean Abbott. "After appearing to be struck in the head Hughes stood, looked at his feet and crashed face-first onto the pitch. The NSW players and umpires called for help immediately," the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Medical staff worked on him before he was carried off with a helicopter reportedly brought in to rush him to hospital.

Cricket officials were not immediately available for comment. (AFP)