Bennett Out of SA Test After Concussion; Masvaure Called Up

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

Brian Bennett was hit on the head when he was on 19 © Getty

The incident occurred when Bennett faced a bouncer from Kwena Maphaka in the sixth over of Zimbabwe's innings. Attempting a pull shot, Bennett missed the ball, resulting in a direct hit to his helmet. At the time of the incident, he had scored 19 runs off 25 balls. Following an on-field concussion test by the team physio, he seemed fit to continue.

However, after facing three more deliveries from Codi Yusuf in the subsequent over, Bennett opted to leave the field. Zimbabwe Cricket later released a statement confirming the mild concussion diagnosis.

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. As per concussion protocols, he will take no further part in the match. Prince Masvaure has been named as his replacement, marking his 10th Test appearance."