The choice for George North to continue playing during Wales’ loss to Scotland in the Six Nations has faced criticism.
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The powerhouse, who has a history of concussions, went limp as Scotland’s hooker George Turner hit him with a high tackle in the opening half, leading to concerns about whether North had lost consciousness.
“I don’t understand why he hasn’t been dragged off straight away,” said Jonathan ‘Jiffy’ Davies on the BBC’s coverage.
Scotland flanker John Barclay added: “The good news is they saw it. He can’t come back on the pitch. If you’re looking at the process, he’s shown a clear sign of concussion as he’s gone limp. Whether he’s lost conscious or not is irrelevant, he can’t come back on the pitch.”
Sport scientist Caoimhe Morris wrote: “The worst of the day. Clearly unconscious at the bottom of a ruck. Allowed to remain on the pitch despite the replay being shown on the big screen multiple times for all to see.”
Times scribe Will Kelleher: “How on earth did they allow George North to play that extra phase. Such a clear case. And how on earth does rugby keep getting this wrong?”
A fan added: “The frequency and ease that @George_North gets knocked out, I’m amazed he’s still allowed to play. Surely no sport is worth this? I genuinely worry every time I see him get hit.”
Another commented: “I’m genuinely starting to worry for George North. Far too many concussions for such a young man.”
A third said: “Poor George North has had far too many concussions and head knocks in his career. He should have been removed immediately and the delay is disgraceful.?
“God forbid George North has issues in future due to all these concussions; whos liability? most of us can see whats happened & based on rules he shouldn’t continue to play but somehow is still cleared to carry on – assume Drs doing their job correctly so hes all AOK now & future?” added another.
George North concussion discussion:
“2/10” – Five players who underperformed in today’s Six Nations action
Let’s examine five players who underperformed on the first day of the second round of the 2023 Guinness Six Nations.
#1. George North (Wales)
Wales Online 4/10: “Underwent a HIA after shipping an illegal hit to the head area from George Turner. Returned and ran hard but without seriously threatening.”
Planet Rugby 4/10: “The veteran had little impact with ball in hand and went off for a HIA after the high tackle from George Turner.”
Rugby Pass 4/10: “Had a handful of decent carries before going off for an HIA. Anonymous in the second half aside from a penalty conceded.”