Anthony Watson Admits Memorising Answers to Pass 2017 Lions Head Injury Assessment

In Brief

Anthony Watson revealed he memorised answers to bypass the 2017 Lions head injury protocol.

Key Facts

• Anthony Watson is a former British and Irish Lions wing and England rugby player
• Watson admitted to memorising answers to pass the recall element of the 2017 Head Injury Assessment (HIA)
• The admission relates to the 2017 British and Irish Lions Test series in New Zealand
• Watson said he knew how to pass the recall part of the HIA to continue playing
• The disclosure was made publicly in interviews reported by BBC News and The Independent in 2024

What Happened

Anthony Watson, former British and Irish Lions wing, revealed that during the 2017 Lions Test series in New Zealand, he memorised answers to pass the recall element of the Head Injury Assessment (HIA) protocol. This allowed him to circumvent the concussion protocol and continue playing despite potential head injury concerns. The admission was reported by BBC News and The Independent in 2024.

Why It Matters

Watson's admission raises questions about the effectiveness and enforcement of concussion protocols in professional rugby. It highlights potential risks to player safety when athletes circumvent medical assessments. This disclosure may prompt review of head injury protocols and player education to better protect athletes from brain injuries.