Prominent Australian neurosurgeon Dr. Adrian Cohen has raised concerns regarding the future of Victor Radley, the Roosters’ player who recently suffered a concussion during a match against the Knights. This incident marks Radley’s seventh recorded concussion in a span of four years, and it was notably his second failed Head Injury Assessment (HIA) this season. Dr. Cohen speculates that the actual number of concussions Radley has endured may far exceed the documented tally, suggesting that many players refrain from reporting symptoms in order to remain in the game.
According to Dr. Cohen, there are significant risks associated with repeated concussions, emphasising the need for Radley to contemplate retirement or at least take a substantial break from the sport, as the long-term effects of such injuries can be severe. He expressed skepticism over the current reporting methods, indicating that those tasked with assessing players are often under pressure and may downplay severity.
This concern echoes the experiences of former players like Boyd Cordner and Jake Friend, who faced similar decisions regarding their playing careers after suffering multiple concussions. Dr. Cohen underscored the necessity for comprehensive awareness regarding the cumulative effects of head injuries, noting that while individual experiences can vary, repeated impacts invariably lead to greater damage and longer recovery times.
The Roosters have issued a medical report stating that Radley has begun a standard concussion rehabilitation protocol and will seek advice from an independent specialist soon. However, the club has refrained from commenting on Dr. Cohen’s recommendations.
In other news, St George Illawarra find themselves in a challenging position regarding young five-eighth Jonah Glover, who has been outstanding in the NSW Cup. Despite his impressive performances, including leading try assists in a recent match, Glover’s chances of advancing to the NRL seem limited due to competition from established players like Kyle Flanagan. This situation has drawn the attention of rival clubs, potentially leading to Glover seeking opportunities elsewhere.
Additionally, there are allegations concerning an NRL club potentially facing an investigation over alleged manipulation of salary cap rules. This club is reportedly exploring unconventional avenues for player bonuses that could lead to significant repercussions if deemed unlawful.
Moreover, Warriors back-rower Kayliss Fatialofa, a promising talent who has made a notable impact in the NSW Cup with 10 tries in 14 games, is attracting interest from Australian clubs. The Warriors are aware of this attention and have proposed a new two-year deal to retain him amidst the external offers.
Overall, the discussions surrounding player safety and contract negotiations highlight pivotal issues within the NRL, especially the long-term health risks for players.