The Australian Cricketers’ Association have condemned England fans booing Steve Smith as “unwelcome” after the Australia batsman left the field at Lord’s after being struck on the neck.
Jofra Archer’s bouncer struck Smith on the neck, forcing him to retire hurt initially on day four of the second Ashes Test. Smith has since been ruled out of the match and is set to miss the third Test as he moves through the concussion protocol.
Smith would eventually return, before being dismissed for 92, but England fans’ treatment of the player has been called out by the ACA.
A statement read: “The overnight events at Lord’s show the importance of the concussion protocols which have been developed in Australia over the last few years.
“Administrators in Australia working with the ACA and now the ICC have done a good job in putting the protocols in place.
“Plainly, they are necessary to protect the players who are struck. Let’s remind ourselves – this is a workplace for these players.
“The reality is that cricket can be a dangerous sport, especially when the bowling is as ferocious as it has been in this series.
“To see the protocols practiced at Lord’s overnight was important and correct.
“What was unwelcome and incorrect was the sound of booing of an injured player.
“Cricket deserves much better than that. And Lord’s, the home of cricket, deserves much better than that also.
“What we witnessed was bravery from an outstanding young man. It should be commended not vilified.
“Over the English summer, generally the crowds have been terrific and really added to the contest. But when someone is hurt, yet the boos continue, it’s time to call ‘enough’. At any rate the players have already served the toughest penalties in the history of cricket. Surely it is time to move forward.”
