Australia are optimistic Chris Rogers will be fit for the third Ashes Test, with the opener’s inner-ear issue showing signs of improvement.
Rogers retired hurt on day four of the second Test due to a sudden bout of dizziness at Lord’s.
He experienced another alarming dizzy spell in the changerooms on Sunday, then another on Monday.
It was feared the 37-year-old suffered a delayed concussion, having been struck on the helmet by a Jimmy Anderson bouncer on day two.
However, a series of scans confirmed the problem was related to the vestibular system in his inner ear.
Team doctor Peter Brukner and Rogers have consulted specialists in London, including a concussion guru.
Further balance tests have been ordered, with the results to be known on Friday.
“He’ll also have some treatment, there’s a physiotherapist who specialises in this area,” Brukner said.
“He seems to be improving very steadily and it’s a little bit early to say what’s going to happen.
“But if he continues to improve the way he does, he should be back playing cricket fairly soon.
“We’re optimistic he’ll be able to play next week.”
Rogers is averaging 109 in the series after posting a career-best 173 at Lord’s.
He would be a major loss if ruled out of the third Test, which starts at Edgbaston on Wednesday.
The veteran has been resting this week and won’t start a gradual return to physical activity until he is free of symptoms and the test results are in.
“He’s just taking it easy for a couple of days. You manage this really similarly to the way you manage a concussion,” Brukner said.
“We certainly haven’t ruled him out of next week’s Test.”
It’s likely the blow from Anderson, which cut Rogers as the helmet dug in behind his ear, damaged the vestibular system.
Rogers, who missed both Tests on the recent West Indies tour due to concussion, is understandably relieved the vertigo was not caused by a brain injury.
“It’s fair to say that was a concern he had and we all had, given his recent history,” Brukner said.
“But that has certainly been ruled out.
“There’s no reason to think there will be any ongoing issues with this balance problem.”
