South Africa got through this weekend relatively intact. Others were not so lucky. In the heat of battle, with the adrenalin pulsing, rugby can become intense, brutal and primal.

The high number of patients admitted to South African hospitals with rugby-related neck injuries is a sign that the country is not taking rugby injuries seriously.

Rugby places high physical demands on athletes and players often sustain injuries while taking part in this sport.

Anyone involved in rugby, including players, parents, coaches, referees, teachers and administrators, needs to understand the importance of identifying and managing concussion.

In rugby the lower limb is the most commonly injured area of the body.

Samoan fullback Paul Williams has been red-carded for striking Springbok flank Heinrich Brussow in their clash in Auckland on Friday.