
TOKYO – World Rugby's clampdown on high and dangerous tackles has resulted in a 12% reduction in concussion-related incidents at the 2019 World Cup compared with the last tournament four years ago, the sport's governing body said on Wednesday.
The average number of injury replacements has dropped from 2.08 per match at the 2015 event to 1.13 in Japan, while concussion rates are down by 35% when compared to elite competition levels last season.
World Rugby added that no delayed concussions have been reported, and the concussion rates at the ongoing tournament are 10.5 concussions per 1,000 player hours, compared with 12.5 in 2015.
“Our commitment to player welfare is unwavering and a core pillar of our strategies is to reduce injuries,” World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said in a statement.
“It is highly encouraging that Rugby World Cup 2019 has demonstrated extremely positive outcomes in this priority area.”