THIS DEVASTATING AND disturbing image of Phillip Hughes the moment after he received a deadly blow to the head was one of the most powerful photographs developed last year.
Taken as his teammates and opposition rushed to his side, photographer Mark Metcalfe has been honoured with a placing at the prestigious World Press Photo competition.
After being hit by the ball in a freak incident, Hughes was treated on the ground by medical staff and transferred to hospital. After undergoing surgery he was placed into an induced coma and was in intensive care in a critical condition.
He died on 27 November, 2014 — three days before his 26th birthday — having never regained consciousness. Following his death, in a symbolic gesture, the official scorecard for his final match was adjusted from “retired hurt” to show Hughes as 63 not out.
People around the world also paid tribute with #putoutyourbats images, which got its own touching, Irish twist.
Metcalfe, who is from the UK, received third prize in the Sports singles category in the World Press Photo contest. He was joined by some other incredible photographers on the winners’ list.
First prize went to Bao Tailiang for capturing Lionel Messi looking longingly at the World Cup trophy during the final ceremony at Maracana Stadium on 14 July last year.
In second place was Al Bello for his perfect timing.
The picture shows the moment Odell Beckham (#13) of the New York Giants made a one-handed touchdown catch in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium last November.
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