World Cup teams warned over head injuries

Rugby World Cup bosses are “unlikely” to disqualify teams for breaching concussion protocols but could impose fines should competitors flout head- injury safety guidelines.

Governing body World Rugby is intent on enforcing player welfare programmes specific to head injuries at the global tournament that begins next month. Chief executive Brett Gosper has warned that World Rugby will scrutinise every head injury in a new crackdown.

Gosper said: “We have a series of sanctions at our disposal to act as a deterrent against non-compliance.” But he stopped short of vowing to throw out anyone breaking the rules. No, no: it’s unlikely that would happen,” Gosper said when asked if teams could face disqualification.