Garry Ringrose praised for selfless act that sent ‘very powerful message' to rugby players at all levels
The Ireland centre suffered a
2
The Blackrock native came off the bench in the Lions' win against First Nations & Pasifika XV
2
Ringrose's first international Test try actually came against Australia in 2016
That torpedoed his chances of playing in last weekend's 27-19 First
But he chucked his hat in the ring for Test selection on Saturday by returning off the bench in Tuesday's 24-19 defeat of a First Nations & Pasifika XV.
Ringrose, capped 67 times by Ireland, said: 'The medics and coaches are very supportive and probably after that game something wasn't sitting right.
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'Then I spoke with the doc and I didn't quite feel right so we made a call.
'It's a tough decision to make but they only want what's best for the player — so it is nice having that support.
'It's the nature of the beast. If you weren't dealing with that, there's some other little battle someone else is dealing with.
"Everyone has their own story as they try to do themselves proud for their team-mates and family.'
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Lions boss Andy Farrell complimented his player's "unbelievably selfless" act.
The Ireland manager said: "It was literally as I was walking off the field, Garry came to me. Once it's mentioned, that's that.
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"It's very easy to keep it to yourself, and lie, and not be honest and open.
"It was very big of him, and the right thing to do. 100%. For the team,as well, not just for Garry."
Irish Independent rugby writer Cian Tracey also praised the courageous decision by the Leinster centre.
He said: "By self-reporting his concussive symptoms, Garry Ringrose has done more for rugby as a sport than scoring the winning try in a Lions Series.
"It is a very powerful message that should be noted by every rugby player, regardless of what age/level they play at. If in doubt, sit them out."
Fans have also commended Ringrose's bravery with one commenting: "He's shown a huge amount of integrity and courage. I hope other players learn from his example."
Another fan added: "I have to agree with this. Well done Garry. One of the biggest opportunities of your career. Very tough after playing so well earlier in the series."
BIG FAN OF THE FARRELLS
Ringrose was sent on early during Tuesday's clash as he linked up with Owen Farrell in midfield.
Ex-England skipper Farrell, 33, was a late replacement for Elliot Daly but stood out as he made three tries and led the charge in an early-game bust-up.
And Ringrose revealed how Farrell — captain for the night in Melbourne — stamped his no-frills style on the squad.
The Lions travelled from Brisbane to Victoria on Sunday and had just two days to prepare for Pasifika.
Ahead of Saturday's second Wallabies clash, Ringrose added: 'When he talks, everyone listens. And in big moments, he consistently delivers.'
While Ringrose is fit ahead of today's team announcement, concerns remain over Ireland pal Joe McCarthy. He limped out of the first Test with plantar fasciitis.
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