PCA REACTION TO PHIL HUGHES INQUEST VERDICT Statement from David Leatherdale, PCA Chief Executive: “The PCA would again like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Phil Hughes who was a respected and valued member of the PCA having represented three counties, including Worcestershire where I was then Chief Executive, during his career. “The past two years must have been extremely difficult for Phil’s family and those who were involved in the match on that fateful day, whether they were team mates or opponents. “Although the coroner, Michael Barnes, said that Phil’s death was caused by a minuscule error of judgement and that the most modern equipment would not have saved him, the PCA will study his report carefully to establish whether there is anything that can be done to reduce the risk of similar tragic accidents occurring and to further improve the safety of players. “Player safety is of paramount importance to the PCA and we will continue to work closely with the England and Wales Cricket Board, the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations and the International Cricket Council to improve the standard of helmets and other protective equipment to minimise the risk of serious injury to players. “Regulations are already in place for first and second team county cricket which makes the wearing of helmets mandatory for batsmen against any type of bowling, for wicketkeepers standing up to spinners and for close-to-the-wicket. Those regulations are constantly being monitored, with important input from the players, and improved, always with the reduction of serious injuries as the primary consideration.” {{ak_sharing}}
