Wayne Bennett wants NRL investigation into career-ending injuries
NRL stars Sam Burgess and Matt Gillett both cut short their rugby league careers this week and coaching great Wayne Bennett says it’s cause for alarm.
NRL
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Wayne Bennett has called for the NRL to investigate why a host of big-name players are having their careers cut short by shoulder injuries.
Representative players Sam Burgess and Matt Gillett retired this week because of career-ending shoulder injuries. Bennett, who coached both players at club level, said there was cause for alarm.
“They have similar type injuries,” Bennett said.
“It’s the most common injury that we have. There are players with multiple operations on the shoulders. Benji (Marshall) has had five and he is still going
“It’s something to look at — why so many of these type of injuries are happening and why it’s finishing guys careers and a lot earlier.”
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Burgess is 30 and Gillett 31. South Sydney and Brisbane are respectively seeking salary cap dispensation from the NRL because of the injuries.
Bennett was relived Burgess had called time on his career.
“I’m happy for him,” Bennett said.
“He doesn’t have to go through all the pain any more.”
Bennett was sitting next to Marshall in Auckland this morning in the final press conference before Bennett’s Great Britain face the Kiwis as part of an international triple-header on Saturday.
Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga questioned if the tackling technique of players needed to improve.
“The players that play our game are bigger, faster, stronger,” Meninga said.
“Maybe it’s a technique thing. It’s the nature of our game. Injuries are part of our game. It’s sad and tragic it’s ended Sam’s and Matt’s careers early.
“The game will look at that. Injuries are part of our game.”
Australian skipper Boyd Cordner; “It is disappointing to see players like Sam, matt having their careers ended.
“We sign up for that,” Cordner said.
“We know it’s part of the sport.”