The tragic loss of Australian batsman Phil Hughes from a catastrophic head injury has highlighted just how dangerous cricket can be, most acutely for the batsmen.
With balls travelling at speeds of up to 150 kilometres per hour, there is always a risk of serious injury if players are struck on the head.
It is a risk that has also had tragic consequences in the past.
Raman Lamba
In 1998, Indian cricketer Raman Lamba died three days after being struck in the head in a Bangladeshi Premier League cricket match.
The unfortunate incident saw the ball cannon off the bat of Mehrab Hossain and strike Lamba - who was fielding at short leg - in the temple.
Lamba who was not wearing a helmet at the time died of an internal haemorrgae three days later in hospital at the age of 38.
Nari Contractor
In 1962, the former India international's career came to an end after a blow to the head.
A bouncer thrown by Barbados bowler Charlie Griffith hit Contractor on the back of the head and left him unconscious for six days.
The now 80-year-old survived but the incident spelled the end of his test career.
Ewen Chatfield
In the mid-1970s, the former New Zealand international was hit on the temple by a ball bowled by Peter Lever during a match against England. This was the days before helmets were introduced and the blow to the head left Chatfield unconscious and unable to breathe having swallowed his tongue.
However, thanks to the quick thinking of English physio Bernard Thomas, his tongue was freed and his life saved by a heart massage. It also did not spell the end of his test career as he continued to play for New Zealand for many years thereafter.
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