Rajasthan Royals on Thursday said that they will monitor the concussion hit Steve Smith ahead of the first match on September 22.
Steve Smith was ruled out of the ODI series against England after receiving a blow on his head during the practice session. He underwent all the tests and followed all the protocols during the entire series under the bubble.
The 31-year-old was supposed to play in the final ODI but he still showed symptoms of the concussion and hence didn’t make it to playing XI.
“Cricket Australia has strict protocols when it comes to head impacts and concussions and, as we’ve seen over the last 12 months, we’re not willing to compromise on those. We have done a lot of research over the last few years to better understand head impacts and concussions specific to cricket” Kountouris added.
The franchise is still confident about his availability for the opening game against Chennai Super Kings. Smith will also be leading the side and his presence is a must for the side against CSK.
“Steve is making progress and working with our medical team through the concussion protocols required to return to play. Unfortunately, he was not ready to play the final ODI against England. We are working collaboratively with his IPL franchise on his return to play from here once he arrives in the UAE.” Cricket Australia’s head of sports science Alex Kountouris said.
Rajasthan Royals’ head coach Andre McDonald also said that the medical team will also monitor the Smith’s concussion symptoms.
