Concussion Substitute in Cricket: Rules and How It Works
What a concussion substitute is in cricket, when ICC rules allow one, what 'like-for-like' means, and notable examples from international matches.
The concussion substitute rule, introduced by the ICC in 2019, allows a team to replace a player who suffers a concussion with a 'like-for-like' replacement who can bat, bowl, and field as a full participant. This was introduced following growing awareness of head injury risks in cricket and the inadequacy of the old substitute fielder rules for head injuries.
When Is a Concussion Substitute Allowed?
A concussion substitute is allowed when a player suffers a concussion-related injury during the match — either from being hit by the ball on the helmet or head, or in any other way. The team physio must assess the player and recommend the concussion substitute. The ICC match referee makes the final decision on whether the substitution is approved.
The Like-for-Like Requirement
The match referee must be satisfied that the replacement player is 'like-for-like' — broadly similar in role to the concussed player. A specialist batter concussed cannot be replaced by a specialist bowler who would materially change the team's balance. This prevents teams from using concussion substitutions tactically to upgrade their squad.
Notable Examples
- Steve Smith (2019 Ashes, Lord's): Smith was hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer and later returned to bat, but this case heightened ICC focus on concussion protocols.
- Marnus Labuschagne (2019, Lord's): When Smith ultimately couldn't continue, Marnus Labuschagne came on as concussion substitute — the first concussion substitute in Test history. Labuschagne went on to score 59 and had a remarkable series, springboarding a career-defining year.
- Mitchell Starc concussion substitute: Various instances across white-ball cricket followed, with varying approval decisions by match referees.
Controversy and Criticism
The concussion substitute rule has faced criticism for subjectivity in the 'like-for-like' assessment. Teams have disagreed with match referee decisions. In some instances, critics argued that a replacement was clearly superior to the concussed player, giving the substituting team an unfair advantage. The ICC has refined the guidelines over successive series to provide clearer standards.
Frequently asked questions
Who was the first concussion substitute in Test cricket?
Marnus Labuschagne was the first concussion substitute in Test cricket history. He replaced Steve Smith after Smith was struck on the head by a Jofra Archer bouncer in the 2019 Ashes second Test at Lord's. Labuschagne went on to score 59 in that innings.
Can teams choose who comes in as a concussion substitute?
Teams nominate a replacement, but the ICC match referee must approve it as 'like-for-like'. The referee can decline if they believe the substitute would materially upgrade the team's ability. This approval process distinguishes concussion substitutes from regular substitutions.
Is the concussion substitute rule used in all formats?
Yes — the concussion substitute rule applies in all ICC-sanctioned international cricket: Tests, ODIs, and T20 Internationals. Individual domestic competitions may adopt the rule at their discretion.