Phillip Hughes will forever be 63 not out after Cricket Australia (CA) adjusted the scorecard of his final match as a mark of respect for the promising cricketer who lost his life following a freak injury on the field.
"It might seem like a little thing, but it's an important distinction. Phillip will forever remain 63 not out," said CA chief James Sutherland.
Hughes was hit by a bouncer from Sean Abbot during a domestic match earlier in the week. He was to turn 26.
Australian captain Michael Clarke took to Twitter to share his feelings on the death of his "little brother", a day after paying a moving tribute to the left-handed batsman.
"Life will never be the same. Happy bday bro. Will love you forever. It has been the hardest few days of my life," was one of Clarke's many posts remembering Hughes' birthday.
Australia one-day opener Aaron Finch too wished his former teammate.
"Happy birthday brother! With us forever!! Just a standard day, walking around the house in your baggy green! Haha," he wrote.
Fast bowler Peter Siddle said: "I'm going to miss your cheeky smile, but I'll never forget it".
Hughes' South Australian teammate Chadd Sayers wrote "Happy birthday little man! Miss you so much already!"
