Another shock. On Saturday, during the first Test of the summer tour between New Zealand and Ireland, the captain of Clover’s XV was once again forced to leave the participants due to the concussion protocol. Less than half an hour into the game, Jonathan Sexton was caught off guard by a big charge from New Zealand third-stringer Sam Kane.

As per the new World Rugby regulations (applicable from 1^er July), Leinster’s opener will miss the second Test against the All Blacks in Dunedin next Saturday. “A player who is concussed before 7 cannot restart^E The day after the injury. His return will have to be approved by an independent consultant, the international federation said in a statement. Players, including those with a history of concussion or removed from the game with obvious signs of concussion, will be restricted from playing for a minimum of 12 days.»

I hope Johnny wins HIA 3 mid week. If so, concussion is not confirmed. »

Andy Farrell

So Sexton’s case was settled. Ireland coach Andy Farrell said he was still hopeful of fielding his 36-year-old captain, despite expressing doubts at a press conference. However, he failed the evaluation to return to the field. But, according to Farrell, his captain passed a second check after the game (HIA Test, Head Injury Assessment in French, NDLR).

“Johnny is fine. He is in a good mood. He passed his HIA 2. He is in good condition. I hope to win HIA 3 by mid week. If so, concussion is not confirmed.“That means Sexton will be available for the second of the three Test matches, according to him.

Andy Farrell also claimed that Sexton would not have been forced out by a concussion. “They tested it and deemed it unfit to continue with all sorts of tests going on. You can trip over your cleats, you know, don’t continue“Dare to defend Ireland’s English coach. Who counts on his strategist to hold his head high after a heavy loss (42-19).