Steve Smith hit by Anrich Nortje’s bouncer, misses Day 4 fielding duties; Australia is waiting for an update

Australia suffered a potential injury on Day 4 of the first Test against South Africa in Durban on Monday after Steve Smith was hit on the helmet by a short delivery from Anrich Nortje. The former Australia captain underwent a concussion assessment on the field and did not take the field when South Africa started their second innings.

Steve Smith will undergo a concussion evaluation

Smith was tested for concussion by the Australian team doctor and physio and changed his helmet before continuing his innings. The right-hander subsequently faced more deliveries from Nortje and scored 27 off 41 balls before being caught at long-on by 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, Michael Neser taking his place in the cordon.Australia are unlikely to require a concussion replacement for the remainder of the Test, given that Smith has completed his batting duties and is no longer a regular bowling option.

Smith’s concussion history is a concern

The incident brings back memories of Smith’s concussion during the Ashes at Lord’s in 2019 when he was struck in the neck by bouncer Jofra Archer. Smith was ruled out of the remainder of that Test before returning to the series. Smith also impressed on the field earlier in the ongoing game, taking two excellent catches against Nathan Lyon in attempted slip back sweeps.

Australia dealt with injuries on tour of South Africa

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 game after breaking his finger.Their absence led to the calling up 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 finished batting on Monday as he continues his recovery from a finger injury sustained during the first ODI against South Africa last month.