Steve Smith discusses anxiety after head blow in Test against South Africa

Australian batter Steve Smith revealed he experienced significant anxiety following a blow to the helmet during the first Test against South Africa in Durban. The incident occurred during Australia's second innings when a bouncer from Anrich Nortje struck Smith's helmet.

Smith, who has a history of concussions, noted that the psychological impact was as challenging as the physical hit. He described feeling anxious throughout the remainder of the day, fearing he might experience concussion symptoms overnight. While he was assessed by medical staff on the field and continued his innings to score 27 runs, he did not take the field at the start of South Africa's second innings while undergoing concussion protocols.

After passing medical assessments and waking up without symptoms, Smith returned to the field on the fifth day. He contributed to Australia's 214-run victory, giving them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The match was played at Kingsmead.