SHARJAH // Brendon McCullum termed the injury suffered by Phil Hughes a "freak occurrence" that served as a reminder of how tough cricket can be.
The New Zealand captain suggested that head injuries such as the one suffered by Hughes, or Ahmed Shahzad earlier in New Zealand’s series with Pakistan, are unfortunate accidents that happen in a competitive sport.
Phillip Hughes head injury is a reminder of ‘Gentlemen’s Game’ dangers.
Shahzad, the Pakistan batsman, was ruled out of the remainder of the series after suffering a fractured cheekbone when he was hit by a bouncer in the opening game in Abu Dhabi.
“Bouncers are part and parcel of this game,” McCullum said ahead of the final Test against Pakistan at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. “They have been for a long time and they will be for a long time yet.
“I don’t think you can adjust how you go about that, but you can wish people don’t get injured. That is how we will continue to play the game.
“It is never nice when you do see that, but it is certainly the exception rather than the rule with short-pitched bowling.
“It was a freak occurrence and we hope those guys who have been affected have a speedy recovery.”
pradley@thenational.ae
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