Bennett Out of SA Test Due to Concussion; Masvaure Recalled to Zimbabwe Squad

Brian Bennett, the Zimbabwean opening batsman, will not participate further in the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Bulawayo. This decision comes after he sustained a mild concussion after being struck on the helmet on Sunday, June 29th. Prince Masvaure has been named as his replacement for the remainder of the match.

Brian Bennett receives medical attention after being hit on the head. © Getty

The incident occurred in the sixth over of Zimbabwe's innings when Bennett attempted a pull shot against a bouncer from Kwena Maphaka but missed the ball, resulting in a direct hit to his helmet. At the time of the incident, Bennett had scored 19 runs off 25 deliveries. He initially seemed fit to continue playing after undergoing an on-field concussion test by the team physio.

However, after facing three more balls from Codi Yusuf in the subsequent over, Bennett decided to retire from the field. Zimbabwe Cricket later confirmed in a media statement that the batsman had suffered a mild concussion.

According to the official release, "Zimbabwe opener Brian Bennett will play no further part in the ongoing Test match against South Africa at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo after being diagnosed with a mild concussion." The statement further added, "As per concussion protocols, he will take no further part in the match. Prince Masvaure has been named as his replacement, making his 10th appearance in Test cricket."