Anthony Watson: I cheated HIA process after Sonny Bill Williams hit in 2017 Lions match
BBC World
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Anthony Watson, a former British and Irish Lions wing, revealed that he memorized answers to bypass the head injury assessment (HIA) protocol during the 2017 series in New Zealand. After sustaining a collision with Sonny Bill Williams, Watson appeared unsteady but returned to play just six minutes later by jogging back onto the field. Despite failing an initial attempt to stand from a kneeling position, he was cleared to continue after memorizing a set of five words used in the HIA protocol at the time. This allowed him to avoid being substituted and miss the subsequent game.
The HIA process has since evolved. Players now must recall random sequences of 20 words generated from a bank, making it harder to cheat by memorization. Assessments also include balance and orientation tests, ensuring players pass all elements before returning to play. Independent doctors review video replays and data from smart mouthguards to ensure player safety.
Watson, who retired in January 2025 due to a back injury, expressed no regrets about prioritizing the game over his health. He emphasized that reporting a concussion could have sidelined him for the next match, delaying his potential return to the Lions team. Watson also acknowledged the improved safety measures in modern rugby, noting that players today face stricter protocols and greater transparency in injury management.
The incident highlights broader discussions around player safety and accountability in elite sports. While some players may push through injuries, others, like Garry Ringrose during the 2021 tour, prioritize their health by withdrawing from play when concussion symptoms recur. Watson’s story underscores the ethical dilemmas and risks involved in competitive sports, as well as the importance of evolving safety protocols to protect athletes.
This issue resonates globally, particularly among fans of rugby and those concerned with transparency in sports governance. It raises questions about how organizations balance player performance with their welfare, a topic that continues to evolve in professional athletics.
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Originally published on BBC World on 3/2/2026