Standing at 5 ft 7 in as a professional rugby player can have its advantages and disadvantages.
The pros exist with the fact that you’re likely more nimble-footed than the bigger, heavier majority so can evade tacklers.
The cons come from the reality that your head is in the same place as most players’ midsection so in tackles, you’re more prone to being hit high.
Peter Stringer was reminded of that disadvantage in training this week when he was absolutely clattered by a teammate.
The Ireland legend received a mouthful of unforgiving forehead during a collision in Sale training that left Stringer literally thanking his gumshield provider.
Thanks @OPROGroup for saving my teeth ? #NoDenturesYet pic.twitter.com/QvOg8sbF8k
— Peter Stringer (@stringer9) September 7, 2016
The sound of the clash is enough to make you grimace and we too are thankful for the fact that the scrum half wasn’t forced to fumble around the grass for his teeth.
Sport hurts, folks.
