BBL 2024-25: Bancroft and Sams Experience Concussions After Severe On-Field Collision
Click to start listening
Perth, Jan 3 (NationPress) A shocking collision between Cameron Bancroft and Daniel Sams caused a disruption in the Big Bash League (BBL) contest between the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Thunder at Optus Stadium. This incident happened during the 16th over of the Scorchers' batting, leaving both athletes with concussions that necessitated immediate medical intervention.
The incident unfolded when Cooper Connolly hit a high shot off Lockie Ferguson towards the leg side. Sams dashed in from the infield, his gaze fixed on the ball, while Bancroft raced in from the outfield at full speed. The two collided head-on in a frightening moment, leading to both players collapsing on the field.
“Sydney Thunder's Cameron Bancroft and Daniel Sams have been substituted out of tonight's KFC BBL|14 match against Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium. Both players are conscious and responsive, showing symptoms of concussion and potentially having fractures. They have been taken to the hospital for further evaluation. Ollie Davies and Hugh Weigben have been substituted into the Thunder team,” the Thunder announced on X.
The Thunder players, clearly shaken, hurried to their teammates and urgently called for medical assistance. Sams seemed to be unconscious and was carefully transported off the field in a mini-ambulance, while Bancroft, with significant bleeding from his nose, managed to walk off with aid from the team physiotherapist.
The match was paused for approximately 20 minutes as Sydney Thunder captain David Warner and the coaching staff conferred with match officials. The atmosphere in the stadium was tense while the medical team ensured that both players were safely taken to the hospital for additional assessment.
Post-collision, Sams and Bancroft were ruled out of the match due to concussion protocols. Ollie Davies and Hugh Weibgen came in as substitutes for the Thunder. This incident follows closely after Hilton Cartwright was stretchered off the field due to a fielding mishap during the BBL season opener at the same venue.
Initial reports indicate that both Sams and Bancroft are under medical supervision and in stable condition. Nevertheless, their return to the tournament will depend on the outcomes of further evaluations and compliance with Cricket Australia’s concussion protocols.
