SYDNEY: A “broken” Sean Abbott faced rebuilding his life on Friday after delivering the ball that killed Australian batsman Phillip Hughes, although Cricket Australia (CA) said the young bowler was holding up well given the circumstances.

Test veteran Jason Gillespie said Abbott’s personal and professional life had been turned upside down by the unprecedented tragedy.

“That lad is absolutely shaken and broken at the moment,” he told Fox Sports, while former Australian captain Mark Taylor said he would be haunted by the incident.

“He’s got no questions to answer but I’m sure he’ll be feeling some guilt today and probably will be for a long time,” he said. “I really hope Sean can get over it and we one day see Sean back playing for NSW and maybe Australia.”

Abbott, who made his ODI and T20 debut for Australia in October, was seen cradling the injured player immediately after the incident.

CA chief executive James Sutherland spoke with him on Thursday evening and said he was impressed with the way he was handling the situation, adding “this is a grieving process that will affect people in different ways”.

“I think it’s been fantastic the way in which people have shown concern for Sean,” he said.

While the outpouring of grief and sympathy has been for Hughes, there have also been plenty of encouraging words for Abbott.

“Spare a thought for Sean Abbott,” tweeted Ian Botham, while Viv Richards also sent his best wishes: “Deepest sympathy for Phillip’s family, friends & associates. Sean Abbott in our thoughts & prayers also.”

Published in Dawn, November 29th, 2014