THIS is the scary moment South Africa star Anrich Nortje is sent crashing to the ground after being hit by a 315kg SPIDERCAM.

The shocking incident occurred during his country’s Boxing Day Test match against Australia.

Fast bowler Nortje was minding his own business at the MCG when disaster struck.

The 29-year-old was retreating to his fielding position when the Fox Sport camera made its move.

Zooming across the field, the near-50 stone object lowered before smashing into Nortje from behind.

The fast bowler collapsed to the ground in agony as South Africa teammates rushed over.

But Nortje was fortunately unharmed despite the bruising blow.

And after being checked by medical staff, he was able to continue playing against Australia.

As for the Spidercam, fans at the game reported it was taken down as the Aussies built up a 197 run lead and wasn’t used for the rest of the day.

Fox Sports have since apologised to Nortje and admitted it was an operator error.

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The camera can come down to head height, but is only supposed to do so for interviews and moments when it can be done so safely.

But the out-of-control camera was slammed by commentator James Brayshaw, who said: “Nortje walking quietly to his spot, then bang. That should not be happening.”

Fans were also left extremely concerned by the incident.

One said: “Hope the camera operator has been warned that they are out of a job if this ever happens again.”

Another declared: “This is so horrible.”

One noted: “How can this be allowed to happen. This goes above the camera operator. It could have been much worse.”

Another added: “A criminal case must be lodged against the broadcaster and the host nation for such an unpardonable act, even if unintentional.”

Nortje said afterwards: “I didn’t know what hit me, to be honest. So far so good. It just knocked the [left] shoulder and the [left] elbow. The elbow is a bit sore but otherwise seems to be okay. I’ll just monitor it and see how it goes with the [doctor].

“I saw cables and then I turned around or moved my head and then I saw the camera, but I was a little bit too late. It was quite quick. It didn’t really change my mindset or anything. I tried to stay focused.

“I think the one thing we’ve spoken about earlier is how low it is and it probably shouldn’t be unless [it needs to be] for certain interviews or something. But I don’t think it should be travelling head height. That’s just my opinion. And then for Marco [Jansen] as well, they must take him into consideration [for his height].”