It Is The Right Decision: Steve Smith On Being Replaced On Final Day Of Lord's Test

Steve Smith was ruled out of the fifth and the final day of the ongoing Lord’s Test after being hit by a bouncer from Jofra Archer on the fourth day’s play. Smith was floored by the bouncer and had to walk off the field. Although he returned to bat but missed out on a scoring century by 8 runs.

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Smith had cleared necessary tests before being cleared to bat on day four and was expected to be part of fifth day’s play. Though the situation was different in the morning of the final day and the after-effects of concussion were there. Usually a person sufferer the after-effects of concussion after 24 to 48 hours after the blow.

“With the test that I have done and how I have woken up today, it is the right decision. I would obviously love to be out there trying to keep performing and trying and help Australia win another Test match but the right decision has been made,” he said.

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“I will obviously be monitored very closely over the next few days with a pretty quick turnaround in between Test matches and I am hopeful that I can make a recovery and be okay for that. I am going to be assessed over the next five or six days each day probably a couple of times a day to see how I am feeling and progressing and I am hopeful that I will be available for that Test match,” Smith added.

For now, it is not sure whether Smith will be fit for the third Test or not. Though he is expecting to be fit for the game, just three-day break in between the two Tests could make it difficult for Smith. The third Test of the series starts on Thursday next week and is unlikely that he will be a part of it.

Also Read: Marnus Labuschagne Becomes First Concussion Substitute In International Cricket After Replacing Steve Smith

As per the new ICC rules, Australia were allowed to name a replacement for Smith and Marnus Labuschagne became the first-ever concussion substitute in international cricket. He was also hit on his helmet by a bouncer from Jofra Archer on the first ball that he faced. After medical attention, Labuschagne resumed batting and seems to be fit.

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Australia are chasing a target of 267 in two sessions a play. A play of 13 overs is done and 35 overs remain in day’s play. Australia need 221 runs while England are eight wickets away from what would be a historic win if they manage to scalp those wickets. Archer has been sole wicket-taker for England so far.