Skip to main content
See who owns your news
Published • loading... • Updated

'Anxiety' the biggest hurdle after head blow: Smith

Smith said the blow revived fears from past concussions, and he passed delayed checks before returning as Australia won by 214 runs.

  • On Sunday, Australia batsman Steve Smith revealed he felt significant anxiety after being struck on the helmet during the first Test against South Africa in Durban last week.
  • A bouncer from Anrich Nortje hit Smith on the helmet last Monday, triggering concussion protocols due to his history of head injuries, including a 2019 Ashes incident involving Jofra Archer.
  • "I was a little bit anxious to be honest after the hit," Smith said, noting he feared past concussion symptoms; he passed all required medical checks and recovered quickly.
  • Smith successfully returned on the final day, helping Australia secure a 214-run victory and a 1-0 series lead while preparing for the second Test at St George's Park.
  • Captain Cummins addressed retirement speculation, stating Smith is in a "really good place" and dismissing expectations of an imminent career exit for the 37-year-old batsman.
Insights by Ground AI

11 Articles

ReutersReuters
Reposted by
The Star Kuala LumpurThe Star Kuala Lumpur
Center

Australia's Smith says head blow left him anxious in first test ...

·London, United Kingdom
Read Full Article
PerthNowPerthNow
+2 Reposted by 2 other sources
Center

'Anxiety' the biggest hurdle after head blow: Smith

Steve 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.

·Osborne Park, Australia
Read Full Article
Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 38% of the sources are Center, 37% of the sources lean Right
38% Center

Factuality Info Icon

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

Info Icon

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

The Canberra Times broke the news in Canberra, Australia on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
Too Big Arrow Icon
Sources are mostly out of (0)

Similar News Topics

News
Feed Dots Icon
For You
Search Icon
Search
Blindspot LogoBlindspotLocal