THE North Wales Cricket League could review its policy on the wearing of helmets for batsmen following the tragic death of an Australian international batsman.

Phillip Hughes, 25, died yesterday, just two days after being struck at the base of his head by a ball bowled to him during a provincial cricket match in Sydney.

The death of the cricketer, who represented his country in more than 50 test and one-day internationals and was wearing a helmet when the incident occurred, has put sportsmen's safety in the spotlight once again.

Senior batsmen playing in North Wales have the choice of whether to take to the crease wearing a helmet or not as the North Wales Cricket League does not have a policy of mandatory head protection while batting.

But Geoff Lloyd, president of the North Wales Cricket League, said its policy may now come under review following the tragedy.

"The wearing of helmets is something that is mandatory in the league for under-18s," he said.

"But it is something that is discretionary for adults.

"It is very rare to get an injury of that nature, but in view of what has happened our policy could be reviewed.

"What has happened is very, very sad.

"The protection of players is always something that is uppermost in the league's mind."

Hughes collapsed face first onto the pitch after being hit by a ball on the back, lower left side of his head from pace bowler Sean Abbott as he attempted a pull shot.

He was playing for New South Wales.

He was given mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and oxygen on the boundary line after being carried off the pitch on a stretcher.

Australian team doctor Peter Brukner confirmed: "He never regained consciousness following his injury."

Cricket development officer for North East Wales, Phil Evans said: "There have been head injuries in the North Wales Cricket League but fortunately they haven't been life threatening.

"I have seen a couple but nobody has been knocked out that I know of.

"Players at this level can be at risk of illegal deliveries, but the ball is bowled much slower than the pace of first class cricket so the risk can be less.

"Some clubs make players sign disclaimers if they don't wear a helmet.

"It is important not to rely on the helmet though and get out of the way if the ball is coming at your head whether you wear one or not."