Cricket-Karunaratne cleared to bat after blow on second day

Sri Lanka opening batsman Dimuth Karunaratne has passed a concussion test and been cleared to bat after being hit by a bouncer on the back of the neck on the second day of the test against Australia, the country's cricket board said on Sunday.

A Pat Cummins delivery struck Karunaratne and felled the 30-year-old. He was carried off in a neck brace after a lengthy delay and forced to retire hurt on 46. The batsman was taken to hospital from where he was discharged after being cleared of any serious injury.

In line with the current International Cricket Council's medical policy Sri Lanka Cricket said he is not suffering any concussion issues. "To all at @CricketAus #Canberrahospital, to Dr. Asanka and to all who were there when I received a blow !!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for looking after my well-being," Karunaratne said on Twitter late on Saturday.

"Cheers... My Cricketing battle starts all over again tomorrow.." The touring side resumed their first innings on the third day on 123-3, trailing Australia by 411 runs. The hosts lead the two-test series by 1-0 after winning the opening match in Brisbane by an innings and 40 runs. (Editing by Greg Stutchbury)