Ireland must follow America’s example on concussion, says Collins

Leading international expert in sports-related concussion Dr Micky Collins is adamant countries like Ireland must follow the example set by America in taking decisions concerning head injuries out of the players control.

When Brian O’Driscoll was substituted in the 53rd minute last weekend against the All Blacks it seemed like he had sustained nothing more than a ‘stinger’. But it turned out he had suffered concussion.

And thanks to the IRB’s new protocols the decision on whether he would stay on the field was taken out of his hands and left to Ireland doctor Eanna Falvey who, after putting the player through the Pitch Side Concussion Assessment (PSCA), deemed him unfit to return.