Sydney, Nov 25 (IANS): Australian team doctor Peter Brukner confirmed Tuesday that batsman Phillip Hughes sustained a severe head injury while batting for South Australia in a domestic first-class match here and "is in a critical condition".

The left-handed batsman collapsed on the ground after a delivery from New South Wales pacer Sean Abbott hit his helmet during a Sheffield Shield match against New South Wales (NSW) at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

He was treated on the ground by Cricket NSW medical staff and transferred by an ambulance to St. Vincent's Hospital. He subsequently underwent surgery and remains in a critical condition in the hospital's intensive care unit.

"Phillip is receiving the best possible medical care. The thoughts of his teammates and the wider cricket community are with Phillip and his family and friends at this difficult time," Brukner said in a statement.

"We ask that you kindly respect the family's wishes for privacy."