Steve Smith is undergoing a concussion assessment after being struck on the helmet by an Anrich Nortje delivery during Australia’s second innings in the first Test against South Africa in Durban. The Australian batter initially continued batting after being checked by medical staff but did not return to the field when South Africa began their fourth-innings chase.
Steve Smith’s condition will be monitored ahead of the final day, with Australia hoping to have their experienced batter available if required. The incident has also raised concerns because Smith has previously suffered head injuries during his career, including a notable concussion incident in the 2019 Ashes series.
Steve Smith assessed for concussion after Anrich Nortje delivery hits him
The incident occurred early in Steve Smith’s second innings when Nortje delivered a short ball that did not bounce as high as the Australian expected. Steve Smith attempted to evade the delivery but was struck on his helmet. The ball deflected towards fine leg, allowing Smith and Marnus Labuschagne to complete a leg bye.
Smith immediately changed his helmet after the impact and underwent an initial assessment. He was cleared to continue his innings, having faced only four balls at that stage. However, he was absent when Australia took the field later in the day, prompting further monitoring by the medical team.
Under Cricket Australia’s concussion and head trauma policy, a player diagnosed with concussion must observe a minimum 24-hour stand-down period. Any return to cricket-related activity also requires medical clearance. A confirmed diagnosis would therefore rule Smith out of fielding on the fifth day.
Smith’s history of concussion and vertigo adds to the attention surrounding the incident. During the 2019 Ashes, he was struck on the helmet by Jofra Archer at Lord’s and initially passed an on-field assessment before being withdrawn later. Marnus Labuschagne replaced him as a concussion substitute on that occasion.
Australia are also managing other fitness concerns during the series. Cameron Green missed the Durban Test with an abdominal strain, while Josh Inglis has returned to South Africa after suffering a broken finger and is working towards being available for the second Test in Gqeberha, scheduled to begin on October 18.
Beau Webster gives update on Steve Smith
Australia all-rounder Beau Webster said he had not spoken to Smith after leaving the field but hoped the senior batter was recovering well following the blow.
“I’ve not seen him since I’ve been off the pitch so I’m hoping he’s okay,” Webster said. “He obviously copped a nasty knock in the head there but wishing him all the best. And hopefully he’s back out with us either tomorrow or in the next Test.”
Smith’s availability remains an important consideration as Australia look to finish the match strongly. The medical team’s assessment will determine whether he can take any further part in the contest.
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I’ve got a start in this Test and looking to contribute anywhere I can: Beau Webster
Webster has made useful contributions with both bat and ball in Durban. He took a wicket during South Africa’s first innings and scored an unbeaten 39 in Australia’s second innings, helping the visitors build their advantage before declaring.
With Cameron Green expected to return when fit, Webster could face competition for a place in Australia’s preferred XI. However, the all-rounder said he was concentrating on contributing to the team’s immediate objectives rather than speculating about selection.
“There’s obviously going to be some conjecture going into every Test on what the lineup is,” Webster said.
“I try to stay away from that unless the phone rings with (chief selector George Bailey’s) name on it. It’s probably not a good sign (if it rings), and it didn’t. I’ve got a start in this Test and looking to contribute anywhere I can.”
