Australia suffered a potential injury scare on Day 4 of the first Test against South Africa in Durban on Monday after Steve Smith was struck on the helmet by a short-pitched delivery from Anrich Nortje. The former Australia captain underwent an on-field concussion assessment and did not take the field when South Africa began their second innings.
Steve Smith undergoes concussion assessment
Smith was tested for concussion by Australia’s team doctor and physiotherapist, and he changed his helmet before continuing his innings. The right-hander subsequently faced more deliveries from Nortje and went on to score 27 off 41 balls before being caught at long-on off Simon Harmer.Cricket Australia said Smith would be assessed further and that an update would be provided “later today or tomorrow”. He was absent from the field when South Africa began their chase, with Michael Neser taking his place in the fielding cordon.Australia are unlikely to require a concussion substitute for the remainder of the Test, given that Smith has completed his batting responsibilities and is no longer a regular bowling option.
Smith’s history of concussion raises concern
The incident brings back memories of Smith’s concussion during the 2019 Ashes at Lord’s, when he was struck on the neck by a Jofra Archer bouncer. Smith was ruled out of the remainder of that Test before returning to the series. Smith had also impressed in the field earlier in the ongoing match, taking two outstanding catches at slip off reverse-sweep attempts against Nathan Lyon.
Australia deal with injury setbacks on South Africa tour
Australia have already been forced to make changes to their squad during the ongoing tour. Cameron Green was ruled out of the opening Test with an abdominal strain, while Josh Inglis missed the match after fracturing a finger.Their absences led to the call-ups of Nic Maddinson and Sam Harper. Maddinson, in particular, marked his return to Test cricket after a decade by opening the innings in Durban. Inglis has since rejoined the Australian squad and completed a batting session on Monday as he continues his recovery from the finger injury sustained during the first ODI against South Africa last month.
