Legal Experts Welcome Step To Identify And Review Incidents

Specialist sports injury lawyers have welcomed the announcement that Hawk-Eye technology will be used at the Rugby World Cup next month to assess the severity of head injuries.

World Rugby has confirmed that the Hawk-Eye SMART replay technology will be used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the Television Match Official (TMO) decision-making process, as well as to help medics identify and review head impacts.

It is thought the technology will particularly prove useful in terms of providing multiple angle replays and zoom functionality.

Brett Gosper, chief executive of World Rugby, said the move would have “clear benefits for the match official team, the medical team and fans around the world”, adding that “the integrity of player welfare” is central to the sport.

The plans have been welcomed by sports injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell who specialise in helping those affected by head injuries to gain access to vital support to aid their rehabilitation and recovery.

Expert Opinion

“Concussion in sport as an issue has been discussed widely now for several years and it is very welcome to see clubs in a range of sports and also professional bodies recognise the seriousness of the matter. <br/> <br/>“Significant steps forward have been made in the way head injuries and concussions are dealt with, with the implementation of new protocols and regulations aimed at protecting those who take part. <br/> <br/>“We have seen worrying instances when players continue to play after suffering a head injury, which is dangerous in the context of that game but also carries long-term health risks. <br/> <br/>“Ultimately, the decision on whether players should continue rests with medical experts, so any technology and service which helps them to do their job and make the best possible decision has to be welcomed.” Ian Christian - Partner