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In August 2019, Marnus Labuschagne, the first “concussion substitute” in Test cricket history, took Steve Smith’s place during the second Ashes Test.
In the first innings of the second Test at the storied Lord’s Cricket Ground, Australia bowled out England for 258 runs after winning the previous Test by 251 runs in Edgbaston. Following a 12-month ban, Smith was playing in his first Test series. He was named Player of the Match in the opening Test and was instrumental in getting the visitors to 250 in the opening innings of the second Test with a crucial 92.
But a scorching bouncer from Jofra Archer smacked the great batsman in the neck as he was batting on 80. The cricket fraternity was concerned when Smith fell heavily to the ground. The medical staff and physiotherapists quickly went to the middle to evaluate his condition. Hurt, he walked back to the pavilion and retired, only to return at the next Australian wicket fall to add another 12 runs to his tally.
The Beauty Of Test Cricket 🏏.
SMITH was hit under the Neck by Archer.
Marnus Labuschagne the FIRST EVER replacement in the test history came to bat and it was his Debut match.
Marnus Labuschagne was struck on the Helmet facing his 2nd ball on the debut match 🥵.… pic.twitter.com/g0ROVw7KPv
— Hassan Siddiqui (@HassanDude77) July 22, 2024
When Marnus Labuschagne replaced Smith in the middle of the Test match, the Australians took full advantage of the International Cricket Council’s guideline regarding concussion-related ailments.
Unlike regular substitutes who may only field, the former were permitted to bat and bowl due to the concussion substitution rule. In the Home of Cricket, Labuschagne’s outstanding 59 in the second innings helped Australia survive to a draw despite heavy rain.
Prior to coming on as a replacement due to a concussion, Labuschagne had only participated in six Test matches. There were large shoes to fill and a lot on the queue. Nevertheless, the South African-born individual easily passed the exam.
Also Read: Australian Test captain Pat Cummins will take an eight-week break from the game
When Labuschagne came out to bat at 47/3, trailing a target of 267, Australia found themselves in a precarious situation. But he and Travis Head put together a vital 85 runs to defuse the tension. At the end of the series, the tourists were awarded the urn and the score concluded at 2-2.
India
