Australia received some good news after star batsman Steve Smith was cleared to play in the second ODI versus England on Sunday (September 13) after passing a second concussion test on Saturday. He had also cleared the first concussion test on Friday but was rested from the first ODI as a precautionary measure.

Smith took a blow on the head in the nets from a throwdown by coaching staff member on the eve of the first one-dayer which was won by Australia by 19 runs. Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh struck half-centuries while Adam Zampa and Josh Hazlewood took four and three wickets respectively.

Marsh was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au, “I think it was a good decision in the end. There’s no need to take unnecessary risks with head injuries,” 

“It probably gives our selection committee a few headaches now because the top order struck them beautifully, without getting a big score. Anytime you’ve got Steve Smith coming back into the team it’s a great feeling,” he added.

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It will be interesting to see who makes way for Steve Smith after a solid all-round batting performance by the visitors against the World Champions. Pace spearhead Mitchell Starc remains an uncertain starter after experiencing some groin pain but might play considering the importance of the game on Sunday in Manchester.