South Africa all-rounder Ryan McLaren to miss second Test due to concussion brought about by a brutal Mitchell Johnson bouncer. Wayne Parnell expected to take McLaren's spot in the XI
Port Elizabeth (South Africa): South African all-rounder Ryan McLaren has been ruled out of the second Test against Australia starting at St George's Park on Thursday after being hit on the head by fast bowler Mitchell Johnson during the first Test in Centurion on Saturday.
South African team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said McLaren was suffering from mild concussion.
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McLaren received treatment on the field after a short ball from Johnson crashed into his batting helmet. He resumed batting before being dismissed by Johnson soon afterwards.
South Africa's cricketer Ryan McLaren is examined after being hit on the head during the 4th day of the first Test between South Africa and Australia at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Saturday. Pic/AFP
Dr Moosajee said: "Ryan was admitted to a Johannesburg clinic on Sunday evening suffering from suspected concussion-related symptoms including worsening headaches and nausea, which started approximately 30 hours after the blow to his head.
His condition improved overnight and he was re-assessed by a neurologist as well as a leading sports physician with a special interest in concussion, Dr Jon Patricios.
"He is doing much better and has been discharged but from a medical protocol point of view, any form of concussion is concerning enough to rule him out of the next Test match.
He will be monitored over the next four to five days and will have further assessment done next Monday to decide whether or not he can join up with the squad prior to the third Test in Cape Town."
The South African selectors will choose the side for the second Test from the remaining 14 players in their squad. Left-armer Wayne Parnell is the most likely replacement if the selectors decide on an all-rounder, although selection convener Andrew Hudson said on Monday that an additional specialist batsman was an option. Dean Elgar is the back-up batsman in the squad.
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