Rugby could be derailed by its head injury problem

Anyone who thought Gavin Henson, perma-tanned Welsh rugby three-quarter and one-time escort of Charlotte Church, was just an overhyped glamour boy should think again. He has revealed himself as one of more than 200 former players, including several Test players, involved in legal action against World Rugby and the English and Welsh unions, claiming levels of brain damage caused by the game, and seeking damages.

There is a common conception that head injuries – and their accompanying mental problems – are the preserve of forwards the size of Chelsea tractors who see the game as a form of stock-car racing. But Henson joining the ranks of those citing the onset of brain damage so soon after Owen Farrell stepped down as England captain, blaming social media and fans’ behaviour, reinforces the fact that the game’s problems run right through a team, from Nos 1 to 15. Another Wales back, the often-concussed George North, was no outlier.

Just because Henson bought his tan over the counter and used Dax Wave and Groom to make his hair stand on end in the heat of battle doesn’t take away from the fact that he was as tough as a tugboat and not afraid to smash an opponent.