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Steve Smith admits anxiety following scary head blow in first Test
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CNBC TV18•18-10-2026, 16:00
Steve Smith admits anxiety following scary head blow in first Test
- •Australia batsman Steve Smith admitted feeling anxious after being struck on the head by Anrich Nortje during the first Test against South Africa in Durban.
- •The 37-year-old former captain has a history of multiple concussions throughout his career, heightening his worries after taking the helmet blow.
- •Smith passed all mandatory concussion protocols and tests, waking up well the next morning to continue playing in the match.
- •He scored 27 runs and returned on the final day to help Australia secure a 214-run victory and a 1-0 lead in the series.
Key Questions Answered
Steve Smith experienced anxiety after being struck on the head by a bouncer from Anrich Nortje during the first Test against South Africa in Durban, leaving him hoping not to experience the severe concussion symptoms he had suffered in the past.
After passing concussion protocols following a mandatory helmet change and on-field assessment, Smith returned to play on the final day, helping Australia secure a 214-run victory and a 1-0 series lead.
Steve Smith surpassed Steve Waugh to become the third-highest run-scorer in Test cricket for Australia, reaching 10,945 runs.
