England are implementing modifications to Tom Curry's high-intensity playing style to prioritize his safety, following his return for Sunday's match against Japan after a recent concussion. Curry missed last weekend's loss to South Africa due to a severe head injury sustained in a collision with Australia's Rob Valetini during the previous week's defeat against the Wallabies. The 26-year-old, who nearly retired last season due to a debilitating hip injury, has a history of head injuries, including a concussion in Sale's season opener against Harlequins.
Curry also cut short his participation in England's 2022 tour of Australia after suffering a third concussion within six months. While Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who is studying medicine and made headlines earlier this year for ruling himself out of England's final Six Nations match against France due to concussion, is absent from this week's squad, Curry could potentially return against Japan this weekend after successfully completing the return-to-play protocols.
Curry, nicknamed one of the 'Kamikaze Kids' by Eddie Jones alongside Sam Underhill for his fearless approach, has been described by Sale's director of rugby, Alex Sanderson, as someone who 'goes after everything with everything he's got,' which has taken a toll on his body. England assistant coach Andrew Strawbridge emphasized that no risks are being taken with Curry's health. 'He's been through every protocol that exists, and we're making finer adjustments about how he enters contact – both sides of the ball – to keep himself safe,' said Strawbridge. 'He's 100% fit, healthy, and ready to go.'
England, currently on a five-match losing streak, face Japan with Strawbridge acknowledging the pressure on head coach Steve Borthwick and his assistants. Despite the challenges, Strawbridge remains confident in the coaching staff's ability to handle the situation, drawing parallels to Ian Foster's experience with the All Blacks in 2022.
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