World Rugby insists the sport has not been sluggish in its response and deny that external pressure has precipitated the shift.
However, while undoubtedly a victory for player welfare, the journey is not complete.”
“It is also welcome acknowledgement for our members, who have long held grave concerns around this flawed protocol. “Whilst long overdue and not the perfect solution, this is a positive step and will prevent most elite players from being exposed to extreme and unnecessary risk. A spokesperson for Progressive Rugby, which has been lobbying World Rugby for 16 months to introduce a precautionary 28-day layoff for concussed players, said the move would help to enhance player welfare but stressed more could still be done.
