Canterbury, Parramatta and Penrith in strife for ignoring stringent new concussion laws

CANTERBURY, Parramatta and Penrith could face disciplinary action from the NRL if they’re found to have breached the concussion laws.

The Panthers delayed replacing concussed hooker James Segeyaro. Picture: Matt Blyth.

CANTERBURY, Parramatta and Penrith could face disciplinary action from the NRL this week if they’re found to have breached stringent new concussion laws.

The three clubs have been asked to answer a ‘please explain’ letter from the NRL as to why players from each of the three clubs remained on the field during the first two weeks of the competition despite seemingly suffering bouts of concussion.

Penalties for ignoring the new rules range from the loss of competition points, a substantial fine or the suspension of registration of key personnel.

The Bulldogs’ Josh Jackson remained on the field despite being visibly wobbly after a tackle. Picture: Gregg Porteous.

In an effort to ensure every club complies with the new concussion guidelines, the NRL want to know why Bulldogs forward Josh Jackson was permitted to keep playing in last Monday night’s emphatic victory over Cronulla despite stumbling to his feet following a tackle on a Sharks player.

He appeared dazed and confused, yet Jackson was given the okay by the Bulldogs trainers, raising confusion and concern from commentators and fans.

NRL head of football Todd Greenberg stated publicly during the week that the incident was not a good look for the game, nor was it in the best interest of player safety, if indeed Jackson was allowed to play on despite being concussed.

And in two other separate incidents, the Eels have been asked by the NRL to clarify why Will Hopoate remained on the field following a heavy knock to the head he suffered in round one against New Zealand while the Panthers have been asked to explain why there was a delay in replacing concussed hooker James Segeyaro during last weekend’s loss to Melbourne.

The Panthers delayed replacing concussed hooker James Segeyaro. Picture: Matt Blyth.

The show cause letters indicate the NRL are treating concussion seriously despite the on-going debate surrounding the issue.

The NRL have also shown that like any new rule, they are aware that some club’s will attempt to flirt with those rules or try and use them to their team’s advantage.

A further three players finished in the concussion ward last Friday night during the Wests Tigers win over South Sydney.

The Tigers Tim Simona and Par Richards will join with the Rabbitohs Greg Inglis in needing to pass a post-concussion cognitive test before being cleared to play in next weekend’s round 4 matches.

The NRL have also resisted against introducing an 18th man reserve, which teams could use only if and when they lose a player in a match due to concussion.