Let's be fair, it wont just be Catalan.
Also, although the head test is a hugely serious matter, I wonder what the numbers are for players not being allowed to return. They are very few and far between, apart from the really obvious instances where players can barely stand/walk off the field.

Good post NT.



I'm sure this will be investigated by the RFL. It is just a case of someone making them aware of Catalans indiscretion.

Perhaps altering the rules so if the player fails a test then the interchange is wiped, but if they pass then it's considered as one of the 8 substitutions allowed as per any other injury.

Catalans were indeed a disgrace last season and it sounds like this one's going to be no different. I really don't know how there can be 100% proof of faking though. Yes, you can point towards their subs being warmed up and ready for the switch but they'll soon find a way round that as soon as it's scrutinized.

I agree, in the same way as it wasn’t just Catalans who were faking injuries, it’s just they took it to a new level last season and by the sounds of it have taken the abuse of the concussion interchanges to a new level already.

If they are doing that then there will be evidence of it as the season progresses so let’s punish the worst offender at least.

That would be the easiest and most sensible way to handle it

However could then discourage players from admitting they may have concussion or some symptoms of it.

Subs being warmed up and ready, the time and nature of when the player goes off. All games are recorded for the disciplinary so scrutinise the tackles that apparently caused the concussion.

I agree it’s not easy but I think this is an important area of the game and needs proper oversight otherwise you have to get rid of the concussion protocols.

If the RFL were to severely punish the club, the players, the head coach and the staff involved that should provide enough incentive to not do it. A head coach isn’t going to risk a year ban for instance or players a 3/4 month.

They do that anyway but are over ruled by the doctor/physio.

Whilst they’re at it, they need to look at the attacking player stepping over the tackler, deliberately fouling the ruck, and winning a penalty for it. Another of Catalans cynical tactics.

They did it last night - Teirney been the worst culprit. James Child fell for it several times.

I think the giveaway was the fact the physio ran onto the field towards the player who was going to be replaced patting his head as a signal to the player to stop. It was so bloody obvious I’m surprised the off-field officials didn’t notice.