Benson Stanley suffers another concussion – Rugby News Update
Benson Stanley, the 27-year-old Blues and New Zealand Centre has suffered another concussion, this time in a loss to the Crusaders at Christchurch.
The head coach of Blues, Pat Lam, was naturally concerned about the centre, who has previously suffered a concussion four times, putting his career in jeopardy.
"It's concerning, another concussion and he's had a few now," said Lam. "He hasn't had one this year but on the back of the one he had with Auckland last year there is concern.”
He further commented on his status by saying, "The medical team are monitoring that and he'll go through the normal protocols. He could be out for a while. After the game it wasn't the right time to be talking through (when he will return) and I don't think
he remembered too much."
Stanley, who is equally adept on the wing as he is in the centre, has played for the All Blacks three times in his career. He made his debut in 2010 against Ireland at New Plymouth, on June 12, 2010, and played his last international game for his country
against Wales at Hamilton, on June 26, 2010.
He has been an important member of the Blues, nailing a place down in the centre after missing the 2009 season due to a serious hamstring injury. His 2010 form brought him international recognition, earning all his international caps in that campaign, but
falling out of the favour subsequently.
However, he started all three tests in the absence of Ma'a Nonu, who was out injured.
His future has been put in doubt but the medical team will be able to make a better assessment. Nevertheless, he seems to have played his last game for the Blues, as he is poised to move to Clermont next season, to play in France.
Stanley has rugby in his veins, as he is the nephew of All Blacks' Joe Stanley. His move to France is to further his rugby experience and education. However, the centre has to get well soon, and be able to play rugby once again before he can harbour any
ambition of making an international return.
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