IN their

player ratings following the Lions’ victory over the Chiefs, one website praised Courtney Lawes for being a warrior. He sustained a heavy blow to the head in the game and was eventually removed for a head injury assessment.

Just six minutes later, he returned to the pitch. And this, apparently, made him a warrior. Seven days earlier, Lawes had been knocked out playing against the Highlanders.

Anybody who believes rugby is taking the risk of brain injury seriously should ruminate on that. Attitudes are not changing quickly enough.