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“I’m still feeling the impact, but that’s just rugby,” says George North as he approaches his 14th Six Nations
“Ten years?” exclaims George North when reminded of our last interview in January 2014. The Wales centre leans in at his team hotel near Cardiff, listening closely as I read out the opening line from the old interview, where his youthful self humorously stated, “At the ripe old age of 21, I already feel like I’m in the body of a 31-year-old. It’s just been non-stop really. I think if I did stop I would just fall apart.”
With 118 caps, four World Cups, and gearing up for his 14th Six Nations, we delve into his commitment to assisting Wales’s new captain, Dafydd Jenkins, who is the same age North was a decade ago. We also discuss the surprising move of 22-year-old Louis Rees-Zammit to the NFL. Additionally, North addresses concerns about concussions in his lengthy career, emphasizing that he exceeds standard medical protocols to safeguard himself.
First, George North laughs in response to how he currently feels compared to our last conversation, stating, “I feel like I’m 31 in a 21-year-old body.” As he turns more serious, he reflects on the past 10 years, acknowledging the physical toll of rugby but expressing contentment. With the ongoing World Cup season and eight months of play, he surprisingly feels good and emphasizes his continued enjoyment of the sport, emphasizing that he wouldn’t be participating otherwise.
North is set to kick off his latest Six Nations campaign with Wales’s home game against Scotland on Saturday, marking his 14th appearance in the tournament since his debut in 2011. Playfully, he remarks, “Don’t say that too loud—Fourteen Six Nations? Flipping heck.”
Recalling his Test debut at 18, where he scored two tries against South Africa in 2010, North was initially compared to Jonah Lomu. However, a more fitting comparison now might be his former captain, Alun Wyn Jones, who amassed 158 caps for Wales.
“Rest assured, Alun Wyn is safe,” George North reassures, acknowledging that, as Wales’s third-most capped rugby international, he trails Jones by 40 Tests. He emphasizes that, at this stage, the focus isn’t solely on numbers but on giving his best performance. With significant changes in the squad and an average age of 24 or 25, North playfully laments that he’s now considered the old man after years of being the youngest. However, he finds solace in having Gareth Davies, who is a couple of years older than him, on the team.
Welsh rugby is grappling with the unexpected departure of Louis Rees-Zammit to the NFL’s international player pathway in the US, leaving even coach Warren Gatland surprised. George North, reflecting on the situation, acknowledges hearing bits about it but commends Rees-Zammit’s decision, considering the brevity of a rugby career. North, offering a wise perspective, believes the young player can explore this opportunity and return if needed. He shares that he, too, had a chance in 2013 after the Lions tour of Australia but quickly dismissed the idea, prioritizing his goal to play for Wales, especially given the rarity of such opportunities for individuals from north Wales.
When asked if he considered switching codes, North reveals that the thought crossed his mind while enjoying a gin and tonic in Sydney after a series win. However, his dedication to rugby and Wales, emphasizing the significance of the Three Feathers, prevailed over any temptations to switch.
Welsh rugby is no stranger to challenges, and the departure of Louis Rees-Zammit is undoubtedly a loss of a remarkable talent. George North acknowledges the difficulty of losing young players but emphasizes the perpetual evolution of the sport, with new talents stepping in. Looking ahead, North reveals his decision to play for Provence in the French second division next season, driven by the contrasting financial situations in Welsh and French rugby. The move, influenced by what’s best for his family, promises a fresh experience for North and his wife, former world champion sprint cyclist Becky James.
Provence, currently leading Division Two, presents an exciting opportunity for North, who speaks positively about the team’s performance and their chances of promotion. Addressing concerns about concussions, North expresses disquiet, noting that while his history with head collisions is often highlighted, there are players with more significant incidents who don’t receive similar attention. Despite the scrutiny, North emphasizes his proactive approach, seeking the best advice and investing in monitoring his well-being out of his pocket. He highlights that such efforts often go unreported.
North focuses intently, emphasizing his commitment to self-care and well-being. He underscores the immense value he places on being present for his family. Reflecting on a challenging period between November 2014 and March 2015, during which he experienced four head blows, North acknowledges the difficulty but highlights that much was beyond his control. Taking proactive measures to safeguard himself, he went above and beyond recommended protocols, ensuring comprehensive protection. Despite these efforts, he expresses frustration at baseless claims and sensational headlines made by individuals who lack access to his full medical history, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced understanding, especially with the ongoing advancements in medical science.
In a 2016 interview with Radio Wales, Dr. Barry O’Driscoll suggested that if George North were an amateur rugby player, he would be advised to retire. This statement garnered attention and bothered North, who expressed frustration, saying, “This doctor has never met me. He doesn’t know anything about me except my name and that video clip. It gets challenging, even when I’m just trying to do my weekly shopping, people feel the need to share their opinions. While they’re entitled to their views, they don’t need to tell me every time.”
Reflecting on the situation, North emphasized the efforts made leading up to 2015, including a six-month period without contact, which significantly improved his condition. He delved into research on the impact of neck stability and strength on concussion, highlighting that, since then, he has been fortunate to remain injury-free. He acknowledged that sometimes it takes one person going through challenges to bring attention to an issue, and unfortunately, that fell on him.
However, North noted that much has changed since 2015, with numerous former rugby players linking dementia and neurological disorders to head injuries during their careers. He pointed out that the medical protocols were not as robust in the past, stating, “You can’t compare my history with someone from 14 or 10 years ago because it’s different. The game has evolved significantly off the field.”
Despite the improvements, North acknowledged the difficulty for his family when he experiences a significant hit on the pitch. He revealed a candid conversation with his wife, mother, and family, expressing that if a doctor informs him of any decline, no matter how slight, he would immediately retire from rugby. North emphasized that there is no gray area for him, and it would be an easy decision because he goes to great lengths to protect himself. Contrary to public assumptions, he clarified that he consistently seeks advice from top doctors to make informed decisions about his career.
Gatland seems to have unwavering confidence in North and the medical professionals overseeing him. He has even hinted at the possibility of North participating in the 2027 World Cup. North acknowledges these discussions, stating, “We’ve talked about it a few times. However, having experienced four World Cups and understanding the toll on my body, I approach each game cautiously, taking it one step at a time.”
In addition to managing his own career, North is committed to supporting Jenkins, the young captain with only 12 caps. North describes Jenkins as a proactive leader, emphasizing, “Daf’s a doer. I’ve backed him from the beginning, offering to be the experienced voice from a distance or right by his side. His work ethic has impressed me as a senior player.”
Anticipating the Six Nations for a youthful Welsh squad, North expresses excitement, noting, “It will be challenging, but we have a great opportunity with three home games. Despite being labeled as underdogs with early dismissals, it’s unfounded. We have a significantly changed squad, typical after a World Cup, and the emerging players are enthusiastic. It’s their initial chance to don the Welsh jersey, and I appreciate the early opportunity I received. You must seize it wholeheartedly.”
