On the fourth day of Australia’s first Test against South Africa in Durban, Anrich Nortje smacked Steve Smith on the helmet with a bouncer during the second innings. The incident occurred after Nortje’s delivery hit Smith’s helmet and went toward fine leg on the fifth ball of the thirteenth over. Smith ducked to avoid the short-pitched delivery, which did not bounce as high as he expected. The 37-year-old batter was evaluated on the field by the team doctor and physiotherapist, and his helmet was replaced before he resumed batting.
After scoring 27 off 41 balls, Steve Smith was caught at long-on by Simon Harmer. Despite the blow to his helmet, he continued his innings and contributed to Australia’s 214-run victory. However, the experience had profound psychological consequences, which Smith went on to examine in considerable depth.
The Durban episode raised concerns that extended beyond the blow’s immediate aftermath. He was under extra psychological strain because he didn’t know if he’d get concussion symptoms overnight.
Steve Smith described how his emotional state had an affect on the rest of the day.
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When South Africa began their second innings, Michael Neser, a substitute fielder, took Steve Smith’s position in the cordon. On the fifth day of the first Test, he returned to the field after being cleared of concussion by medical personnel. He demonstrated his willingness to continue assisting the team by making a grab to dismiss Kyle Verreynne when he returned to the field.
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