Ex-players offered brain MoT

FORMER Scotland rugby players are to be given the opportunity to receive a brain health MoT.

Scottish Rugby is offering the pilot service to ex-players as part of its commitment to their welfare.

It will be held at Murrayfield and delivered by Professor Craig Ritchie from Edinburgh University. Invitations to male and female ex-players will begin to go out this week, the union said.

The investigation process has three stages, with the patient being seen by the clinician two to three times over a period of several months.

The clinic concept is intended to be extended to former players in a range of contact sports, and ultimately to the wider public.

Scottish Rugby said it had worked with Brain Health Scotland, Alzheimer Scotland, Edinburgh University and World Rugby to establish the clinic.

Scottish Rugby’s chief medical officer Dr James

Robson said: “I am delighted we are now ready to i nvite former Scotland players to the pilot Brain Health Clinic at BT Murrayfield.

“While a lot is known about physical and mental health, the health of our brain is an area we continue to learn more about.

“The clinic is a groundbreaking and essential step in taking that understanding further and supporting those who have played rugby as they enter later life.”