England and Bath back row Sam Underhill who has been forced to sit out the 2019 Six Nations due to injury says he is aiming to be a less physical player in order to prolong his rugby career.
Underhill is halfway through his predicted return from injury following ankle surgery six weeks ago. The
There have been concerns for the Bath flanker who has already suffered several concussions, with some suggesting his all-action, selfless
“It’s probably something I’ve tried to stop [playing physically],” Underhill told Vernon Kay at a live pre-game event in Twickenham. “A disregard for your own body is great when you’re young, and you feel really good, and then you play a couple of seasons and you think ‘I’m not sure I can keep this up’.
“People kind of expect you to be like that all the time, and when you can’t it’s tough to keep up. I’ve tried looking after myself a little more and my tackle technique, I’ve tried not to put my head in the wrong place.
“Safety is pretty key when you are teaching young people to play. You don’t want them smashing into each other. It’s great to watch when they’re adults, but you don’t want people getting hurt.
“Technique is so important for a long career… especially in the tackle area, making sure you’re not injuring yourself unnecessarily, and other people around you.”
Not Familiar with Sam Underhill’s style of play? Check out this montage!
Remember the ‘try that wasn’t’ against the All Blacks?
