Ulster Rugby have announced the retirement of 22-year-old Academy player George Saunderson with immediate effect, citing ‘medical advice’ following ‘concussions sustained this season’. A prop in the Ulster Rugby Academy, Saunderson’s potential was spotted as early as 2021 when he was selected for Ireland’s U20s Six Nations squad, where he featured three times, scoring a try against Italy.
Saunderson’s premature retirement will no doubt continue to spark the debate in Rugby Union at the moment regarding player safety and concussion protocols. At just 22 years of age, Saunderson being forced to retire following ‘medical advice
In a press-release issued by Ulster Rugby this morning, the province announced the immediate retirement of Academy player George Saunderson “on medical advice”. The statement continued, “Following concussions sustained this season, the talented forward has been advised that he should retire from rugby.”‘ is concerning for the sport.
