Australia's [Images] Justin Langer was taken to hospital concussed after being hit on the head by a bouncer in the third Test against South Africa [Images] on Saturday.

Fast bowler Makhaya Ntini [Images] bowled the first ball in Australia's first innings and the short delivery rose off the pitch to hit the left-handed Langer behind his right ear, causing "significant concussion".

Langer, playing in his 100th Test, received treatment on the field before retiring hurt.

"It appears that Justin sustained significant concussion," Australian media manager Philip Pope quoted team physiotherapist Alex Kountouri as saying.

"There was also a cut in the back of his head, and he received two stitches.

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"He was seen by the ground doctor and he has gone to hospital for precautionary scans which is the norm in this situation."

Pope said Langer was able to walk from the dressing room to the ambulance that took him to hospital.

"The Australian team medical staff will continue to monitor his condition," Pope quoted Kountouri as saying.