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.
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.
Steve Smith copped a blow on the helmet early in his innings. (AP: Themba Hadebe)
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
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