Northampton Saints escape sanction over George North treatment

George North of Northampton dives over for the final try during the Aviva Premiership match between Northampton Saints and Bath at Franklin's Gardens on
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Northampton Saints will face no sanction over their treatment of winger George North's latest head injury.

Northampton Saints have been told that they will face no sanction over their treatment of George North's latest head injury.

The winger was left lying motionless on the ground following a dangerous tackle from Adam Thompstone during the 19-11 defeat at the hands of Leicester Tigers earlier this month.

However, after being assessed by the club's medical staff he was allowed to continue - a decision that was heavily criticised due to the possibility of concussion.

A concussion review panel has now ruled that the club completed the protocol, though, and will face no further action.

"The Concussion Management Review Group CMRG's view is that there was sufficient evidence to conclude not only from the video evidence but also George North's history and risk stratification that he should not have returned to the field of play," said the report.

"The CMRG considered the welfare of North was always at the centre of Northampton's actions, and does not consider that the medical team (or the club) failed to complete the HIA protocol nor intentionally ignored the player's best interests."

North, who spent five months out of the game after a series of blows to the head last year, has been stood down from Northampton duty since the incident.

George North of Northampton dives over for the final try during the Aviva Premiership match between Northampton Saints and Bath at Franklin's Gardens on
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