London: Australia remain “hopeful” that opener Chris Rogers will feature in next week’s third Test at Edgbaston despite requiring further specialist treatment after succumbing to a sudden bout of dizziness during the second Ashes Test at Lord’s on Sunday.
It had been thought the 37-year-old was a victim of delayed concussion, having been struck on the helmet by a bouncer from England paceman James Anderson on Friday’s second day. But a London-based specialist said Rogers was suffering a balance problem in the inner ear. Australia team doctor Peter Brukner said that while Rogers’s condition was improving, he would remain in London for more treatment before a final decision was made on his availability for the third Test. “Chris saw another specialist in London this (Wednesday) morning who confirmed an injury to his vestibular (balance) system in his inner ear,” said Brukner in a Cricket Australia statement.
“Chris’s condition continues to improve but he will remain in London for further tests and specialized treatment. “We are hopeful that he will be available for selection for the third Test.” After two overs’ play on Sunday, Rogers crouched down by the side of the pitch and then sat motionless before eventually going off on 49 not out. The left-hander played no further part in Australia’s crushing 405-run win, which levelled the series at 1-1, having helped establish their strong position at Lord’s with a Test- best 173 in the first innings.
Rogers was not scheduled to play in a three-day tour match against county side Derbyshire at Derby starting on Thursday in any event. Australia do have a back-up opener in their squad in Shaun Marsh while all-rounder Shane Watson, dropped from the side at Lord’s following Australia’s 169-run defeat in the first Test of the five-match Ashes in Cardiff, has had spells as an opener during his Test career. Rogers missed Australia’s recent 2-0 series win in the Caribbean with concussion after being hit on the head while batting in the nets.
