Quote: Highlander "Don't know if concussion needs it's own thread, but you are correct we are behind RU at present. Logically though, what RU are doing will drive what we have to do as well. And the link between the 2 sports is insurance.
The insurers will be saying to RU, well you are taking measures to reduce risk going forwards, penalising head contact harshly, looking at changing the way the game works to minimise head to head tackles etc. Due the the significant liability though, we will have to increase premiums by 50%
Now, RL, you're not doing these things that RU is doing. But we're a different sport say the RFL. Insurers, well, not from where we're sitting - rugby ball, high tackles, punching. Liability is less than RU going forwards, but you're not publically doing all the preventative things that RU is doing so 200% premium increase for RL. Have a nice day.
Due to the relative difference in financial footprints of the 2 codes and the small pool of specialist sports insurers, this will be one area where we will have to follow RU lead I think. And the lever will be money, as always.'"
Interesting post. However is it the case that that at this point in time Insurers are actually paying out on claims from Rugby and Football players, Very sensitive subject I know. Often the medical problems players have are suspected as being down to their sport, but not proven 100%?