Ashes 2015: Chris Rogers must deal with mental scars, says Justin Langer
Tuesday 21 July 2015 14:34, UK
Justin Langer believes Australia batsman Chris Rogers will need to overcome the mental scars of the dizzy spell which ended his involvement in the second Investec Ashes Test at Lord’s.
Rogers was forced off the pitch on Sunday, one run short of a half century, with the effects of a delayed reaction to being struck on the helmet two days earlier.
The 37-year-old saw a specialist in London on Monday, and further tests are planned, but is expected to feature in the third Test at Edgbaston starting on July 29.
His inclusion in the match will be a major boost to Michael Clarke's side after Rogers hit a Test career-best 173 during the first innings at Lord's as Australia levelled the series with an emphatic 405-run victory.
Perth Scorchers coach Langer, who featured in 105 Tests for Australia between 1993-2007, says Rogers will need to deal with the psychological effects of last week’s incident for the rest of his career.
“I think the biggest symptom is, and this may sound silly, but getting back on the horse to face fast bowling again," he told Sky Sports News HQ.
"There’s the psychological trauma as much as the physical trauma. Ultimately you can get over the physical side, but it’s the mental scars of having to face fast bowling again and having that horrible feeling of going blank for a shot having been hit.
“It only lasts for a few seconds, but when it does happen it is a horrible feeling. He is battling unbelievably well and just scored an incredible Test match hundred.
"He is in the form of his life, but it will always be a battle for him for the rest of his career having to take on the fast bowlers again.”
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