In a gripping showdown between England and Italy in Rome in 2022, Ellis Genge showcased a stunning demonstration of sportsmanship that left onlookers astounded.
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The incident transpired in the latter half, as Italian forward Sebastian Negri was rendered unconscious following a powerful collision with England’s lock, Nick Isiekwe.
As Negri lay motionless on the field, Genge wasted no time in making a compassionate gesture. He immediately signaled for medical assistance, demonstrating not only his dedication to the game but also his deep concern for the well-being of his fellow athlete.
This act of sportsmanship resonated with fans and players alike, emphasizing the true spirit of sportsmanship that transcends the competitive nature of the sport.
“I heard him choking so I gave him a slap to see if he reacted,” Genge said.
“He just carried on choking so I didn’t know if he had swallowed his tongue – that’s why I tried to roll him on to his side.
“I’m not a master in medicine, but I’m pretty sure you are supposed to put them in the recovery position so I tried to do that. I was quickly ushered away by the medics so I let them just carry on.
“It’s horrible when that happens. I don’t know Seb very well personally, but a lot of my friends played at Hartpury College with him and apparently he’s a lovely bloke.
“He’d just come on and he’s a big player for them and for that to happen wasn’t nice to see. I hope he’s well. I really do. I really don’t like seeing people being hurt like that.
“When you are on the pitch you think rugby is the be-all and end-all, but you are definitely brought back down to earth quickly and realise reality when something like that happens.”
The then Leicester prop tweeted an update on the Italians condition to which Negri responded with his sincere thanks: “Thank you so much Ellis Genge.’
“I appreciate all you did. You are a top man. All good this side and feeling a lot better. Wishing you and all the England lads all the best for the rest of the Six Nations,”
Yesterday, following England’s win at Twickenham, Negri got to thank Genge in person.
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Wayne Barnes call for three changes to ‘improve rugby’
Discover the three significant changes Barnes advocates for rugby union in the current landscape, aiming to enhance the game’s appeal and competitiveness.
Read his full column for The Telegraph by clicking here.
Change one: Referee reviewers must encourage the game to flow
He wrote in his column: “With the game crying out for less stoppages and for more attacking rugby, a general philosophy around allowing the game to flow should be the focus of what the selectors are feeding back to match officials.”
RUCK Judgment: Spot on – it just makes sense that referees are recognised for promoting gameplay rather than enforcing rules to the extent that the game halts more frequently than in American Football.
