Kent players have paid their respects to Australian batsman Phillip Hughes who tragically died overnight.

The 25 year old batsman never recovered after being hit on the head by a bouncer in the Sheffield Shield match against South Australia and the New South Wales batsman passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Having played for Worcestshire, Middlesex and Hampshire, Hughes was well known around the county circuit and Kent’s players have shown their respect by leaving the following tributes:

Captain Rob Key wrote on Twitter: “Desperate, desperate news about Phil Hughes. Can’t imagine what his family must be going through.”

Vice-captain Sam Northeast, current playing in Australia, wrote on Twitter: “Devastating news to hear Phil Hughes has passed away. Thoughts are with his family. Extremely sad day.”

Australian-born Kent bowler Mitchell Claydon, playing in New South Wales, said: “Absolutely gutted. Very sad day. Thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Adam Riley and Sam Billings, on tour in Sri Lanka with the England Performance Programme also paid their respects.

Riley wrote: “One of cricket’s darkest days. RIP Phil Hughes.”

Billings wrote: “Horrendous news about Phil Hughes. Sad, sad day. Devastating.”

Ben Harmison wrote: “Shocking news about Phil Hughes can’t believe it my thoughts and best wishes go out to his family and friends! #ripphilliphughes”

Tammy Beaumont wrote on Twitter: “Devastating to hear about Phil Hughes this morning. Was such a nice guy. Thoughts with all his family and those around him. #RIPHughesy”

Fabian Cowdrey added: “Cannot believe what I’ve read! RIP Phil Hughes. #cricketfamily”

Charlotte Edwards wrote on Twitter: “Such a sad day #RIPPhillipHughes #408”

Former Kent wicketkeeper Geraint Jones tweeted: “RIP Phil Hughes. Honour and a pleasure to have had chance to meet and play against you.”

Batsman Daniel Bell-Drummond wrote: “Cant believe Phil Hughes has died!! Shouldnt be happening!!‪ #RIPPhilHughes”

Meanwhile, Kent’s CEO Jamie Clifford said: “I am greatly saddened by the tragic news of Phil Hughes’ death. All my thoughts are with Phil’s family.

“Kent County Cricket Club sends deep condolences to Phil Hughes’ family, friends and teammates.”

As a result, the planned 2015 fixtures release has now been postponed until further notice.