Kalyn Ponga’s concussion sacking will not net the Newcastle Knights a salary cap

Abdo said the NRL has not made a final decision on whether to introduce a mandatory recovery period for players with concussions.

“There are a couple of elements, we’re constantly reviewing our policies,” Abdo said.

“And the Commission is considering and checking whether our policies keep up with what’s going on in the world and with trends and technology. But there is no announcement yet.”

Former Bulldogs forward James Graham, a brain health advocate after suffering a series of concussions during his career, said the NRL acted appropriately by protecting its players.

“My advice would be to let the medical professionals guide you,” Graham said.

“I believe the power brokers — people like Andrew Abdo and [ARL Commission chairman] Peter V’landys – they know exactly what’s at stake here.

“It’s difficult and I don’t envy them their position, where they’re likely to be judged on for years to come. From what I’ve seen so far…they address the long-term health needs of athletes [in mind] when it comes to degenerative brain issues, that this was taken into account when developing this protocol and that they are speaking to the relevant people.

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“This is not an expression of opinion, this should be based on factual information and the understanding that professional athletes are willing to sacrifice their future for the present. Maybe they need to be protected from themselves. You have to take that into account when it comes to this.

“Sometimes the very group you are trying to protect is against it. These are young people who want to do what young people do. I understand some of the frustrations because nobody would have spoken louder about this situation than I did, but I’m in a different position now so I understand.

Newcastle striker Jacob Saifiti accepted an early plea deal for his sickening clash with Tigers hooker Jake Simpkin which will result in a five-game suspension.

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