Smriti Mandhana under observation after being hit on head, but gets green signal for World Cup

Rangiora (NZ): Indian opener Smriti Mandhana is under observation after suffering a mild soft tissue injury to her left earlobe during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup warm up game against South Africa here in New Zealand, the BCCI said on Monday.

"Her progress will be monitored by (a) medical team and a decision on her participation in the next match will be taken accordingly," the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement."

The left-hander was forced to retire after scoring 12 runs when she got hit on the head by Shabnim Ismail's bouncer on Sunday.

"Smriti was immediately assessed by the doctor who expected a delayed concussion," the BCCI said. "After further assessment, Smriti was diagnosed with a mild soft tissue injury to her left earlobe which caused discomfort while batting and, therefore, she had to leave the field retired hurt.

"As a safety precaution, she was rested for the rest of the match and is currently under observation. Presently, the opening batter is doing fine and her condition is stable," the BCCI said.

Earlier, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said Mandhana was in good spirits and will feature in India's continued preparation for the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup. (UNI)