Leeds: Steve Smith is set to make his return to action in a tour match against Derbyshire after the Australia star batted in the nets against bowlers for the first time Sunday since suffering from concussion after being hit by a Jofra Archer delivery in the second Test at Lord’s.
Smith, one of the world’s leading batsmen, was ruled out of the ongoing third Ashes Test at Headingley with concussion. But he is now expected to return to action in a three-day tour match at Derby starting Thursday with a view to being available for selection for the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Manchester. The game starts September 4.
“Steve Smith batted against bowlers for the first time today (Sunday) since being concussed,” said an Australia team spokesman. “The session lasted 25 minutes. He also did some high intensity running. He will continue to be assessed but is expected to play in the tour match at Derby,” said the spokesman.
Steve Smith made a spectacular return to Test cricket in what is the former Australia captain’s first series since he completed a 12-month ban for his role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. He made 144 and 142 in Australia’s 251-run win in the first Test at Edgbaston and 92 at Lord’s, having retired hurt on 80 when struck on his unprotected neck by Jofra Archer.
Australia lead the five-match series 1-0 and victory in Leeds will see them retain the Ashes at 2-0 up with two to play.
AFP