AUS vs SL: Steve Smith's jaw-dropping effort to save a six goes in vain, nasty landing leads to concussion

Momentum enjoyed a rollercoaster ride during the second T20I between Sri Lanka and Australia on Sunday (February 13). The high-voltage game went right down the wire and eventually resulted in a tie. What followed was a super over and the Aussies eventually emerged winners. Meanwhile, one of the highlights of the game was Steve Smith’s acrobatic effort to save a six, which went on to rule him out of the series.

It was the fourth delivery of the 20th over of Sri Lanka’s innings and Maheesh Theekshana was the batter on strike. Theekshana’s eyes lit up seeing a length delivery from Marcus Stoinis as he smashed it towards the deep mid-wicket boundary. Six was written all over the shot but Smith tried his best to prevent the six. He jumped full length and tried to keep the ball inside the ropes.

He, however, was unsuccessful as the replay showed his foot was touching the rope before he caught the ball and sent it back to the field. Adding salt to Australia’s injury, Smith nastily crash-landed outside the ropes and hit his head badly while falling. He subsequently suffered a concussion and was taken off the field. It was later learnt that Smith has been ruled out of the series.

Nasty one 😢🤞.

Take Care @stevesmith49 🐐❤️ pic.twitter.com/wBJnnvtVrq

— Tshian #CSK💛💛 (@Johnnysar77) February 13, 2022

Steve Smith ruled out of the series

As per ESPNcricinfo, Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed that Smith’s concussion has led to his ouster from the remaining three matches of the series. Meanwhile, Player of the match, Josh Hazlewood, who recorded figures of 3/22, said the 32-year-old is fine despite some internal concerns.

“(It all happened) pretty quickly when we were out there on the field. I guess when anyone dives and doesn’t get up straight away, there is always a bit of concern. Good to see him walking around now and that he made his way off the field,” said Hazlewood after the game.

Meanwhile, Smith, on Monday, also took to social media and thanked his fans and well-wishers for the greetings. “Thanks everyone for reaching out. My head has felt better but I will be ok,” he posted on Twitter. Meanwhile, Australia now lead the five-match series 2-0 and the win in the next game would seal the deal for them.

Thanks everyone for reaching out. My head has felt better but I will be ok. 🙏

— Steve Smith (@stevesmith49) February 13, 2022