-1791874185444_v.webp)
Australia batter Steve Smith is being assessed for concussion after being struck on the helmet by an Anrich Nortje delivery during the first Test against South Africa. The experienced batter did not take the field in the fourth innings, leaving Australia waiting for an update on his condition.
Smith was hit by a short-pitched delivery from Nortje early in his second innings. He ducked to avoid the bouncer, but the ball did not rise as much as he had expected and struck his helmet. He underwent an initial concussion assessment and was allowed to continue batting. Smith had faced only four balls when the incident occurred.
However, the Australian vice-captain did not return to the field when his team began bowling in South Africa’s fourth innings. He is expected to undergo further assessment over the next 24 hours, with Australia hoping he will be fit to play again.
Beau Webster Hopes Steve Smith Will Return
Australia all-rounder Beau Webster had little further information to share about Smith’s condition at the end of Day 4. However, he hoped the veteran batter would recover in time to take the field on Tuesday.
Australia are chasing a memorable Test victory away from home and need to take six more South African wickets to seal the win.
“I hope he’s OK,” Webster said of Smith. “He obviously copped a nasty knock in the head there… (we are) wishing him all the best. Hopefully, you know, he’s back out with this either tomorrow or in the next Test in Gqeberha.”
Smith’s Previous Concussion Concerns
Smith’s history of concussion and vertigo has raised further concerns following the latest incident. If medical staff diagnose him with a concussion, he will be ruled out of fielding on the fifth day of the ongoing Test.
Under Cricket Australia’s concussion and head trauma policy, a player diagnosed with concussion must observe a minimum 24-hour stand-down period. The player cannot return to cricket-related activity until receiving clearance from a medical officer.
Smith has experienced a similar situation before. During the 2019 Ashes, he was struck on the helmet by a Jofra Archer bouncer and missed a Test as a result. Marnus Labuschagne replaced him in the Australian side during that series.
When Is the Next Australia vs South Africa Test?
Australia’s second Test against South Africa is scheduled to begin in Gqeberha on Sunday, October 18. The third Test in Cape Town is due to take place a fortnight later.
Australia will hope Smith is available for the remainder of the series, although his return will depend on the outcome of his medical assessment.
