Masuri re-designs helmet prototype post Phil Hughes' tragic death

In the wake of the tragic death of late Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes, a British-based firm has come forth with its reformed prototype helmet aimed at giving better protection for the players.

Hughes passed away after succumbing to injuries he endured from a bouncer at the SCG. The 25-year-old South Australian batsman, who was pushing for a Test recall against India in Brisbane, was knocked out after the ball made impact under his helmet, on the back of the neck. Hampshire-based manufacturer Masuri made a reformed 'prototype helmet', which features 'extra protection' at the rear, the BBC reported.

Following the tragic incident, the firm started working on a possible 'redesign' and added a 'stemguard', a device made of foam and a rubber-like compound that clips onto the back of a helmet. 

Reflecting on the new design, Design consultant Alan Meeks said that the arrangement of the foam and honeycomb gives 'as much protection as a hard helmet', adding that though 'it moves around and would touch the player when the ball hits them, it would absorb a significant amount of energy', the report added. 

Earlier, the International Cricket Council had voiced its recommendations for helmet safety standards in recent years.