Cameron Bancroft and Daniel Sams of the Sydney Thunder were hospitalised following a frightening clash of heads during their thrilling four-wicket victory over the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League.

The incident occurred as both players sprinted to catch a high ball hit by Cooper Connolly, resulting in a severe collision.

Bancroft suffered a broken shoulder and a fractured nose, ending his season prematurely. Meanwhile, both players were diagnosed with concussions and remained in a Perth hospital awaiting CT scan results.

Sams is expected to miss at least 12 days, while both players will stay in Western Australia for at least one more night, unable to travel back to Brisbane with their teammates.

The collision unfolded dramatically during the T20 match at Optus Stadium, with Sams appearing to lose consciousness after the impact. Bancroft, although not knocked out, left the field with blood streaming from his nose after receiving treatment from Thunder medical staff and ambulance crews.

The match continued as players from both teams showed concern for the injured duo. After a lengthy delay for medical assistance, Bancroft was able to walk off the field with help, while Sams was transported via medi-cab.

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In the match, the Scorchers had scored 177 runs, led by Finn Allen’s explosive 68 off 31 balls. In response, the Thunder needed 21 runs off the final seven balls, with Sherfane Rutherford ultimately sealing the victory on the last ball of the game.

Despite the triumphant finish for the Thunder, the well-being of Bancroft and Sams overshadowed the match, with teammates expressing their concern and motivation stemming from the incident.