A former Welsh Rugby Federation doctor, John Fairclough, protested on Monday against the possible selection of Welsh prop Tomas Francis, who suffered a big head shock against England, in the Six Nations Tournament, to play against France, Friday.
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Midway through the first half of England's 23-17 win, television footage showed Francis staggering after his head hit that of team-mate Owen Watkin.
He then seemed to lean on one of the posts to keep his balance.
The 29-year-old was out for an assessment of his head injury and sent back to the pitch, only to be substituted in the 55th minute.
“
I have carefully reviewed the images on numerous occasions and, from my expert point of view, there is no doubt that Tomas suffered brain damage,
” said Professor Fairclough on the website of Progressive Rugby, an association defense of the health of the players, of which he is a part.
"
As someone who has taken an oath to protect life...I think to play him in the next game would be to put him at an unconsidered risk of even more serious injury, whether now or in the future.
" , added the doctor.
Progressive Rugby wrote after the match to World Rugby, the Welsh FA and the Tournament organisers, saying the fact that the player was even able to return to the pitch was "
a clear and obvious breach of the regulations put in place to protect players. high level
”.
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Gethin Jenkins, assistant to coach Wayne Pivac, however assured Monday that Francis, like Owen Watkin and winger Josh Adams, also victim of a head shock at Twickenham, will be available for the last chance meeting for the title holders, against the Blues.
“
The player has passed all the protocols, has made his gradual return to the game, has checked all the boxes for contacts and he is available for selection
,” he assured.
Tournament organizers, who analyze every game in the competition, have yet to report on the game and this incident in particular, Jenkins admitted.
"
Wales may well say they have been 'deemed fit'.
For me, (having him play) would be a big mistake
,” Fairclough shot back.
