Following Steve Smith's Helmet Blow In 2nd Ashes Test, BCCI Briefs Indian Players Regarding Wearing Anti-Concussion Helmets

Following the blow to Steve Smith’s neck during the second Test of Ashes 2019, the BCCI has briefed all the players regarding wearing the anti-concussion helmets. In an anti-concussion helmet, there is a protection for the batsman’s neck as well. Many players have started wearing these helmets after 2014 but Smith wasn’t wearing it.

Also Read: Virat Kohli Set To Overtake MS Dhoni To Become India’s Most Successful Test Captain

A bouncer from Jofra Archer went on to hit Smith on the unprotected area, which saw him falling down due to its impact. A few minutes later, he walked off the field.

“Once the new rules on concussions came into effect, the BCCI briefed the captain as well as the coaching staff about it. We have told them about helmets with anti-concussion element — neck guards. A few players including Shikhar Dhawan use it but we can’t force them. Helmet is also about matter of comfort,” an official was quoted as saying by PTI.

Read More: England Opener Jason Roy Suffers A Blow To Helmet During Net Session, Checked For Concussion

While wearing these types of helmets is not compulsory, many players do wear it. Shikhar Dhawan is one of the Indian players who wear the helmet with an extra protective gear.

The ICC rules do not make wearing these helmets compulsory but following the blow to Smith’s neck, ICC might ponder about it and tweak the ongoing rules. It is to be noted that David Warner also does not wear this helmet.

Talking of Smith, he did return to bat 40 minutes after retiring but was ruled out of the fifth day’s play due to the after-effects of concussion. Smith was eager to play the third Test of the series that starts on Thursday but the after-effects of concussion have also ruled him out of the third Test.

Also Read: ‘Relieved And Happy’ S Sreesanth Eyes 100 Test Wickets

We might also see him wearing the anti-concussion helmet right from the fourth Test of the series, where he is expected to make his comeback.

In Smith’s absence, Marnus Labuschagne is expected to bat at number three. He became the first player in the history of international cricket to replace a concussed player. Archer, who had bowled oodles of bouncers to Smith, also welcomed Labuschagne with a bouncer and it went on to hit him on the grille of the helmet.