Connor Watson to miss NRL final due to concussion — ABC News Australia

In Australia, Sydney Roosters hooker Connor Watson will miss the National Rugby League (NRL) grand final due to a concussion sustained in the winning preliminary final against the Dolphins. The player was named at No. 14 for the decisive match, but was not cleared by the NRL to take part in the game.

11-day suspension

Watson displayed Category 1 concussion symptoms, which carry an automatic 11-day suspension from matches. The club confirmed to ABC News that the player was not granted the required clearance and will therefore miss the match.

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For the 30-year-old Watson, this was his final match for the Roosters. He previously spent three seasons, from 2018 to 2021, with Newcastle, the Roosters' opponent in the grand final. The hooker is due to join the Dragons next season.

Likely replacement

This season, Watson played 25 matches for the Roosters at lock or hooker, mostly coming off the bench. His place on the six-player bench is likely to be taken by young hooker Benaiah Ioelu, who has played five NRL matches this season.