Elgar suffers concussion from Yadav bouncer
RANCHI: Theunis de Bruyn became the first concussion substitute in a Test in India after he replaced South Africa opener Dean Elgar who was hit by a bouncer from Umesh Yadav on Monday. Elgar, who retired hurt, has been diagnosed with concussion.
“He will be closely monitored over the next 24 hours, followed by reassessment every 24 hours until symptoms resolve. The soonest he can return to play is in six days’ time in keeping with the standard concussion management protocol,” said a release from Cricket South Africa.
Elgar had taken a blow on the shoulder by one from Yadav that reared sharply. In Yadav’s next over, the innings’ 10th, Elgar had hit a four to move to 16. Two balls later, he ducked into a bouncer and was hit on the right side of the helmet. Elgar turned around before going down on his fours.
Head down and hands around his pads, Elgar sat in the crease as India players and non-striker Heinrich Klaasen came up to him. Wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha patted him on the back and it looked like India captain Virat Kohli was trying get the helmet off, which Elgar did on his own.
After South Africa physio Brandon Jackson reached, Elgar was then seen holding the right side of the head. He walked back into the dressing room as the umpires called for tea. When play resumed, George Linde walked out with Klaasen.
This is the third concussion substitute in Tests since the ICC rule came into effect from August 1. Marcus Labuschagne was the first, replacing Steve Smith who was ruled out of the second Ashes Test at Lord’s in August with delayed concussion.
Jermaine Blackwood was the second, coming in for West Indies’ Darren Bravo who was hit on the helmet by India’s Jasprit Bumrah in the second Test at
Sabina Park last month. The rule allows for like-for-like substitutes in all formats of first-class and international cricket after consultation with the team’s medical representative and the approval of the match referee.
SAHA INJURED
Saha has hurt his right ring finger, according to a media release from the Indian board. He was replaced by Rishabh Pant after the first ball of the 27th over, bowled by R Ashwin. Saha, who came back from a long injury layoff, looked to be in discomfort in the morning session too. “He is being treated and is doing well,” said the release, adding that Saha will be assessed on Tuesday.