“Remembering Phillip Hughes: A Decade of Change in Cricket Safety and Legacy”

**The Spin | A Decade After ’ Tragic Death: ?** Safety in cricket has significantly evolved, yet the memory of Phillip Hughes lingers whenever a helmet is struck. Hailing from Macksville, a quaint town nestled between Sydney and Brisbane, Hughes developed a unique ritual. After each century, he would collect the match ball and inscribe the date and score on its seam. His collection grew to fill baskets. His father, a banana farmer who tirelessly supported his son’s passion—setting up the bowling machine and driving him to matches—estimated that Hughes had scored around 68 or 70 centuries before he left home at just 17. His remarkable talent transformed him into a near-mythical figure, with whispers of his prowess spreading from small towns to the city. At the age of 12, he even shared a player of the competition award with a 37-year-old, showcasing his extraordinary skill at such a young age. As we reflect on the decade since his untimely passing, the impact of Hughes’ legacy continues to resonate within the sport, particularly in discussions surrounding player safety.