Concussion protocols are key to our safety, says Sims

HULL KR’S NRL signing Korbin Sims believes ensuring concussion protocols are as strict as possible rather than altering rugby league’s rules is the way to tackle brain injuries in the sport.

The Fiji prop, 29, has just moved to Super League from St George- Illawara.

The subject of early- onset dementia and brain injuries among rugby players is currently being discussed given some worrying high- profile cases.

Former Leeds Rhinos captain Stevie Ward, 27, retired this week following persistent issues with concussions and there have been some calls to change rules in both codes given the size of some of the collisions experienced.

Australian- born Sims said: “We do take our sport very seriously as players and put our bodies on the line week- in, weekout to put on a show for the fans.

“That’s what we want to do; play our best for the club and our fans. The more that they’re entertained and enjoy their football, the more we enjoy our football out on the park.

“On the concussion issue I don’t know how they would alter the rules or physicality of it because that just takes away from the spirit of the game, and the love of the game that each player has.

“As long as league and sport have their protocols in place in the event of a concussion, I’m sure the person playing sport will be able to return to play safely.

“( But) I hope people really take a good look at themselves and if it’s a concern in their football career I ask them to put that aside and focus on the longevity of their life.”

Sims, who also played for Newcastle Knights and Brisbane Broncos, believes protocols have “really, really tightened up” in the NRL in recent years and the return- to- play process has also become safer.

He added: “I’ve been lucky enough to play in the NRL for eight years and probably had at the top level one concussion.

“I’ve had a couple of injuries close to my head that could have been worse but touch wood I’ve been very lucky and won’t have any more in my lifetime.

“When you see a hard shot that forces a concussion, no- one does it on purpose. It’s a collision sport and unfortunately these things happen.”