Sean Abbott makes stellar return to cricket post Hughes tragedy

New South Wales (NSW) pace bowler Sean Abbott claimed six straight wickets to record his best ever bowling performance in his first match following the tragic demise of cricketer Phillip Hughes.

Abbott's stellar performance steered his side to victory over Queensland as he conceded just 14 runs. The match was played at Sydney Cricket Ground, the venue where Phillip Hughes was hit on the neck by a bouncer delivery from Abbott during a Sheffield shield match.

NSW coach Trevor Bayliss praised the bowler, saying that he was probably one of the guys who handled the situation better than other guys, adding that his outstanding spell showed the character he had, the BBC reported.

Bayliss believes that this outstanding performance would hopefully put him back on the road to success, adding that everyone was happy for him.

Abbott has received the support of the cricketing fraternity and has also been receiving counselling, following the tragic demise of Hughes.

He attended his funeral and was consoled by Hughes's family and other cricketers, who urged him to resume playing.