Ashes 2019: Steve Smith returns after recovery from concussion
What's the story
Steve Smith was back in the Australian XI against Derbyshire in a three-day tour match ahead of the fourth Ashes 2019 Test. Smith was injured in the second Test at Lord's and was replaced after getting concussed. He missed the third Test at Headingley. Smith was in top form in the first two Tests and his return will boost Australia.
Smith vs Derby
Smith out for 23 against Derbyshire
Earlier,Smith was out for 23 on day two of Australia's tour match against Derbyshire. This was his first innings since recovering from a concussion. However, he was caught on the cover boundary off the bowling of Matt Critchley. Smith managed to hit two fours in his 38-ball innings. After being out, he headed straight to the practice nets.
Smith
Smith's return will be a boost for Australia
Smith has already amassed 378 runs so far in three innings in Ashes 2019. At Lord's, he amassed his seventh successive score of fifty-plus against England in Tests. His scores in the last seven innings read 239, 76, 102*, 83, 144, 142 and 92. He also went past 6,500 runs in Test cricket (6,577). The star cricketer also amassed his 25th career Test fifty.
Our take
Australia counting on Smith ahead of fourth Test
Smith will want to use the practice sessions well and get back his shape. He will be eager to step out and fire for the Aussies. With the series tied at 1-1 at the moment, Aussies need Smith to help them retain the urn. They will be counting on him to deliver the goods in Manchester. This will be a massive opportunity for Smith.
Smith injury
Smith was struck on an unprotected part of his neck
It was Jofra Archer's 92.4 mph ball that hit Smith on an unprotected part of his neck and resulted in him falling to the ground. Smith's helmet didn't have the additional stem guard neck protection. Marnus Labuschagne came on as a replacement substitute for the concussed Steve Smith in the second Ashes Test at Lord's. Since coming on, he slammed three successive fifties.