Knocked down, but not out - A review of the ICC’s new concussion replacement regulations

In what was a sensational summer of cricket, the sport also saw the first use of a ‘concussion replacement’ in the international game.¹ Steve Smith, the Australian batsman, was hit in the neck² by a bouncer from English fast bowler, Jofra Archer, during the first innings of the second Ashes test at Lords. The ball narrowly missed hitting the part of his neck that so tragically caused the death of Phillip Hughes. Smith came back out to bat after undergoing a medical examination but looked out of sorts and was out LBW on 92 shortly afterwards. His condition worsened that evening and he began to suffer symptoms including headaches, dizziness and drowsiness³. The medical team stated that, despite passing three concussions tests immediately after the incident, Smith had suffered a delayed reaction to the impact. Australia made the decision to use a concussion replacement and Smith did not feature in the second innings.

This article examines the background to concussion replacements, explains how the new regulations operate, and discusses several talking points that will no doubt emerge with their introduction to the game.