Smith says anxiety, not concussion, worst after head hit

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 10:32 · Archive

Steve Smith revealed that anxiety about suffering another concussion was his biggest concern after being struck on the helmet in the first Test against South Africa.

Steve Smith has revealed that anxiety about suffering another concussion was the biggest issue after being struck on the helmet by Anrich Norje in the first Test against South Africa in Durban. Smith batted on after the hit, then stayed off the field on day four once Australia declared. The 37-year-old passed checks for delayed concussions that evening and the next morning, before returning to the match on day five.

Smith has experienced concussions before, most notably when hit by Jofra Archer during the 2019 Ashes, which caused him to miss the next Test. Speaking ahead of the second Test, he said: 'I was a little bit anxious to be honest after the hit. I've had a few in the past, and had a few concussions and I really don't like the way that makes me feel.' He described feeling unwell for the rest of that day, attributing it to anxiety about repeating past experiences. 'Fortunately I woke up well. I passed all the tests and things recovered pretty quickly,' he said.

Smith made scores of 25 and 27 in Australia's 214-run win in Durban, with his principal contribution being his catching in the slips. Australia's captain Pat Cummins defended Smith's uncertain future in the team, noting that Smith prefers not to plan far ahead rather than orchestrating a grand exit.

Smith says anxiety, not concussion, worst after head hit — Image: The West Australian

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How it is being reported

'Anxiety' the biggest hurdle after head blow: SmithSteve Smith felt unwell after being hit in the head batting in the first Test against South Africa, but the issue was fear of a concussion rather than one.The West Australian · 18 Oct, 10:04
'Anxiety' the biggest hurdle after head blow: SmithSteve Smith felt unwell after being hit in the head batting in the first Test against South Africa, but the issue was fear of a concussion rather than one.Perth Now · 18 Oct, 10:04

In this story: Steve Smith · South Africa · Australia · Anrich Norje · Jofra Archer · Pat Cummins · Durban

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