Sanctioned illegal high tackles significantly increase concussion risk to both tacklers and ball carriers in elite men’s Rugby Union

Abstract

Sanctioned high tackles significantly increase concussion and HIA1 risk to both tacklers and ball carriers. Current decision-making frameworks that guide sanction decisions do identify tackle behaviours that elevate clinical risk. Both tacklers and ball carriers would be less likely to experience concussions and head injuries if the frequency of illegal high tackles is decreased.