JOHANNESBURG, April 1: Justin Langer’s 100th Test was such a special occasion that his parents flew across from Perth to watch him in action — but his innings on the second day of the third Test against South Africa lasted just one ball before he took a blow to the head and ended up in hospital.

The Australian opening batsman ducked into a short ball from Makhaya Ntini and was hit on the right earpiece of his helmet.

He collapsed to the ground and after receiving treatment on the field was helped off, stumbling as he took his first steps.

Australian physiotherapist Alex Kountouri said Langer had suffered “significant concussion”.

He also had a cut on the back of his head which required two stitches. He was examined by a doctor at the ground before he was taken to hospital for a precautionary scan.

Kountouri emphasised that Langer was able to walk to the ambulance which took him to hospital.

Langer’s parents, Colin and Joy-Anne watched the on-field drama from seats in the grandstand of the Wanderers Stadium. —AFP