IRFU launches study on rugby head gear's ability to prevent brain injuries 

Former Italy and  Harlequins head coach Conor O’Shea at the launch of the N-Pro headguard in 2019. Picture: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

A landmark study on the effectiveness of rugby headgear in reducing brain injuries has been launched by the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) amid increasing health concerns around the sport.

The sporting body was one of many subject to legal proceedings by former players citing brain injuries suffered during their careers.