Intro:

The funeral of Australian batsman Phillip Hughes took place on Wednesday (3 December) in his home town of Macksville, New South Wales.

Script:

Eight days after being struck on the neck with a ball during a domestic cricket match, and six since his death, Australia said goodbye to Phillip Hughes.

Australian cricket legends past and present were among those who attended the service for the 25 year old, as did Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Hughes' family had asked for the hearse to go through the town's streets to give locals a chance to take part in the service. The kilometre-long procession ended in the centre of town for a private funeral.

It was held in his home town of Macksville, on the northern coast of New South Wales state.

Current Australian captain Michael Clarke was a pall bearer at the service.

Sean Abbott, the 22-year-old who bowled the delivery which fatally injured Hughes, was at the funeral. He was consoled by members of Hughes' family, and Clarke earlier said Abbott should not be held responsible.

At the front of the hall were flowers and cricket bats, one with his Test cap on the handle.

During the service Jason Hughes, Phillip's older brother, said his sibling was "destined to be a rock star."

SOUNDBITE: (English) Jason Hughes, Phillip's brother:

"Now it's time to say goodbye, bro. Take care. I miss you. I'm so proud of you. Thank you again for all the memories. I love you, now and forever - love your big brother Jase."

Michael Clarke couldn't hold back his emotion:

SOUNDBITE: (English) Michael Clarke, Team Captain:

"(CRIES) We must dig in and get through to Tea... and we must play on. So rest in peace, my little brother... I'll see you out in the middle." (leaves)

A fitting tribute to a talented cricketer, who's life was so sadly cut short.