WORLD RUGBY [FORMERLY the IRB] has requested a full report from the Welsh Rugby Union regarding the apparent head impact sustained by George North during the second half of the clash between Warren Gatland’s side and England last night.
North appeared to lose consciousness in the 61st-minute incident, but remained on the field of play. There was outrage among supporters and pundits alike, particularly given that North had already undergone a concussion test earlier in the same game.
World Rugby said in a statement this afternoon that is “is seeking to establish from the WRU whether all concussion management protocols were appropriately followed.”
On their part, Gatland’s Wales camp have issued an injury update after last night’s Six Nations defeat to the English.
In relation to George North, he passed head injury protocol tests that were carried out in the medical room in addition to an on pitch assessment,” reads the WRU statement.
“He also showed no signs and symptoms when follow up tests were carried out immediately after the game.
“While George is currently symptom free, retrospective video review of the second incident identified the mechanism of injury which was previously unsighted on the field of play.
“This review has warranted the medical team to manage the player as concussed although the player currently has no signs and symptoms. He will now undertake a graduated return to play protocol with multiple follow up cognitive and physical tests.”
It remains to be seen what the outcome of World Rugby’s request for a report is, but the North incident has sparked huge anger among rugby supporters, many of whom felt the player’s health was greatly risked by leaving him on the pitch.
Wales have also confirmed that they will monitor Samson Lee [concussion], Dan Biggar [laceration on forehead] and Leigh Halfpenny [neck] ahead of next weekend’s clash with Scotland.
