Ashes: Chris Rogers 'Optimistic' To Play For Third Test, But Concussion Expert Says Risk 'Is Too Great To Ignore'

Australia is optimistic about the return of opening batsman Chris Rogers in their lineup against England for the Third Ashes Test on Wednesday. However, despite “improving” conditions, a concussion expert has warned Australia that continuing to play Rogers while his brain is distorted is “simply too great to ignore.”

Australia’s team doctor Peter Brukner said on Wednesday that Rogers, who suffered two additional dizzy spell on Sunday and Monday, had an MRI scan that ruled out a concussion, but cited that the problem might be with the left-handed batsman’s ear, behind which he had sustained a small cut. Brukner added that Rogers will have a series of tests in London to test the nerve on the hit area and will receive treatments as well as reported by Sydney Morning Herald.

“He seems to be improving very steadily and it's a little bit early to say what's going to happen. But if he continues to improve the way he does, he should be back playing cricket fairly soon,” Brukner said.

Despite all of the positive hopes that Rogers might be ready for the Test at Edgbaston next week, concussion expert and Charity Headway chief executive of brain injury Peter McCabe has cautioned Australia about playing the head-injury victim Rogers while in his current state. McCabe explained that the risk of aggravating the damage may cause “potentially devastating conequences” according to Daily Mail.

“Often, there may be delay in the presentation of symptoms, such as dizziness, blurred vision or nausea,” McCabe added. “If concussion is suspected, it is vital that players are removed from the field of play.”

Rogers, who missed two Tests against the West Indies last month because of a concussion, collapsed to the ground while batting in the second Test at Lord’s on Sunday. The Australia opener retired hurt in just 48 hours after being struck behind the ear by James Anderson’s bouncer.

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