NRL set to introduce Super League rule

Super League changed its concussion protocols heading into last season extending the stand down period well beyond the original seven day period and beyond 10 days.

This was of course a double edged sword for players. It keeps them protected but meant that Man of Steel Brodie Croft missed Salford Red Devils’ semi-final defeat to St Helens. Had he been fit, it could have been a very different story.

Likewise, Aidan Sezer missed out on the Grand Final even though he passed his Head Injury Assessment itself but because he was knocked out was forced to sit out over a week and therefore missed the Grand Final after John Bateman’s late shot on him in the semi-finals.

At the time, Salford boss Paul Rowley did come up with a brilliant solution around head injuries ahead of big games:

“It is a case of that because a player’s health and well being is paramount but what I would say is at this time of year lets stretch out the excitement and play the games 10 days apart and then you fix your problems straight away.

“It’s a bit quick, there’s no rush, build the excitement and get your best players out. Failing that maybe from Australia there’s a route to take if you get a specialist to clear them then it’s clear.

“The health of the player comes first.”

Speaking of Australia, they are now set to emulate the rule moving forward according to Wide World of Sports.

This comes after the rule was used during the Rugby League World Cup.

Wide World of Sports confirmed that the NRL is considering an 11-day stand down period.