‘Brain Bin’ to be trialled in Aviva Premiership and Currie Cup

A bang to the head will no longer be met with cries of “he’ll be grand”, as the brain bin is to be introduced to the Aviva Premiership and South Africa’s Currie Cup in an attempt to reduce the risk of concussion.

By Declan Whooley

The “brain bin” will operate in a similar manner to the “sin-bin”, with a player who has suffered a blow to the head will be allowed to leave the field for five minutes to undergo a series of tests, with a temporary replacement coming on in his place.

If the player shows any obvious signs of concussion, fails a question or loses his balance four times (three times is not enough apparently), they will not be allowed enter the field of play.

The procedures have already been implemented at underage international tournaments, and many believe that these will be ratified worldwide after the trial.

Former Munster, Connacht and Leinster hooker John Fogarty (above) spoke publicly 18 months about the concept of the “brain bin” after he was forced to retire five months after making his Ireland debut in June 2010 after suffering repeated concussions.

Fogarty believed it was poor tackling technique that resulted in many of the head injuries he suffered. “My attitude completely changed -- from taking a bang to the head and thinking it wasn't much of an issue for me, to taking it seriously”.

It may have come too late for Fogarty, but at least it is a step in the right direction for the safety and health of the players.