The watching world was left baffled as Wallabies scrum-half Nic White returned to the field despite looking badly concussed.
Ross Byrne’s 77th-minute penalty earned Ireland a 13-10 victory over Australia in a turgid Autumn Test in Dublin.
But the unfortunate moment that stood out was White returning to the field following an HIA.
Rugby union lobby group Progressive rugby wrote on Twitter: “Progressive Rugby respectfully require answers from @wallabies after a player who exhibited category 1 symptoms of brain injury (Nic White) was not permanently removed from the game between Ireland and Australia on 19th November, 2022.
“White, clearly unsteady and dazed, instead underwent a HIA and was returned to the field.
“This is unacceptable and further deepens our concern about the HIA protocol and whether it is fit for the purpose of properly protecting players.”
Dr Lisa Ryan, who is a concussion researcher, tweeted: “Sorry…. Am I actually seeing White come back on for Australia??? What is going on. He was clearly concussed.”
A fan added: “Nic White being allowed back onto that pitch was a disgrace. Matt Williams talkin thru his hoop. The dude couldn’t walk straight.”
“Really not sure how Nic White has been allowed back on the field. Very disappointing to see,” commented another.
A third wrote: “Seriously what the f*** is Nic White doing back on?! Disgraceful.”