In the recent first Test match between South Africa and Australia, there was a clear reminder of the dangers involved in cricket of the risk of head injury when participating, and the vital role that helmets play in raising safety levels in modern sport.
The South African all rounder, Ryan McLaren, was floored by a sharp delivery from Mitchell Johnson, the Australian left arm seam bowler, requiring on field treatment for a cut above his right ear which lasted several minutes. Visually shaken by the blow, McLaren resumed his innings but was dismissed shortly after.
But later that day, McLaren started to experience headaches and nausea, lasting over 24 hours. These symptoms led medical staff to rule him out of the second Test match, due to begin on 20 February. After seeing this incident, there have been calls for cricket to review their stance on concussion, perhaps introducing compulsory off field concussion checks for any batsmen hit on the helmet before they are allowed to continue with their innings.
Sports-related head injuries have been much discussed in the media, with several other sports bowing to pressure to adopt more stringent safety measures. NFL, Rugby League, and Rugby Union have put specific laws are in place for those affected by head injuries, with comprehensive concussion testing compulsory before the players are allowed to return to the field of play. In Rugby Union a player must now be stretchered off if they suffer a head injury.
Cricket follows mantra that players cannot return to the field of play if they’re diagnosed with concussion, but the International Cricket Committee itself does not have any laws specifically relating to the issue. Dr John Orchard, the doctor for Cricket New South Wales, Australia, has suggested that cricket should introduce a substitute who can bat and bowl if a player is injured during a match.
With the extreme pressures of high level sport, and the importance of key performers, it is imperative that systems are in place to ensure that player safety is prioritised over on field success.
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