Smith monitored for concussion after hit to helmet while batting
Quick Look
- Australian vice-captain Steve Smith is being monitored for a potential delayed concussion after being struck on the helmet by a short ball from South Africa's Anrich Nortje during day four of the first Test in Durban.
- Though he passed initial on-field assessment and continued batting, Smith did not take the field when Australia fielded later that day and is expected to undergo further testing on Tuesday morning in Durban.
- His availability for the second Test in Gqeberha remains uncertain under concussion protocols, while Josh Inglis and Cameron Green are progressing toward potential selection.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Steve Smith has a history of concussion incidents, most notably being struck by Jofra Archer during the 2019 Ashes series. Concussion protocols in cricket require a graduated return-to-play process, which creates uncertainty about his availability for the upcoming second Test.
In short:
Steve Smith is being assessed by the Australian team after being hit on the helmet while batting on day four of the first Test against South Africa.
Smith continued batting, but did not take the field when Australia fielded late on day four in Durban.
What's next?
Smith is expected to be tested again on Tuesday morning in Durban, and will continue to be assessed for as long as Australia sees fit.
Australia will continue to test Steve Smith for a delayed concussion, after the vice-captain's blow to the head added further questions around the side for the second Test.
DAY 4 RECAP: Renshaw's dream Test continues with first wicket to put Aussies on top
DAY 4 ANALYSIS: Refusing to yield momentum, ruthless Australia is perfectly set for victory
DAY 4 QUICK HITS: Cummins blasts and Maharaj juggles as Smith pulls up lame
Smith did not take the field on day four in Durban, after being struck on the side of the helmet by a short ball from South African speedster Anrich Nortje while batting in the morning session.
The 37-year-old was assessed on the field and passed a test, appearing unfazed as he reached 27 in Australia's pursuit of quick runs.
However, Australia opted to keep him off the field in case there had been a concussion, and conduct further tests. As of stumps, Smith had not failed any.
He is expected to be tested again on Tuesday morning in Durban, and will continue to be assessed for as long as Australia sees fit.
Smith has previously battled concussions, most famously when he was struck in the head by Jofra Archer during the 2019 Ashes.
While the early signs are good, any concussion would leave Smith in serious doubt for Sunday's second Test in Gqeberha given the tiered-return protocols.
It would also add to the quandary around the make-up of Australia's side for that match.
Josh Inglis is back in South Africa after his fractured finger, batting in the nets wearing a splint on Monday and offering every sign he will be available for Sunday.
Cameron Green is also recovering from an abdominal strain, and not yet ruled out of the second Test.
Either of the pair would likely have batted at number five in this Test if fit, but Matt Renshaw's scores of 190 and 82 have made the case for him to stay there.
AAP
The ABC of SPORT
Sports content to make you think... or allow you not to. A newsletter delivered each Saturday.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Steve Smith will undergo a concussion assessment on Tuesday morning in Durban
Very likely · Within days
Steve Smith's availability for the second Test in Gqeberha remains uncertain
Likely · Within days
Open Questions
- Will Steve Smith pass the concussion assessment on Tuesday morning?
- If Smith is unavailable, who will bat at number five for Australia in the second Test?
- How will the potential absence of Smith affect Australia's batting lineup strategy?