Johnny Sexton is one of the best defensive out-halves in world rugby. His ability to read the line, contribute to holding players up and dominate the initial collision make him a valuable asset to both Andy Farrell and Stuart Lancaster in their defensive set-ups for country and province.
In saying that, his tackling technique repeatedly leaves him open to injury. Sexton brings a high-tackle, as a result, he repeatedly takes bangs to the upper body and head. It is two years since Sexton took a break from the game due to successive concussions.
Leinster take on Exeter today in the Aviva Stadium and after two minutes they lost Sexton. In the build-up to the Chiefs opening try, Sexton shot up and made a high hit that didn't pay off:
It's an extremely valuable asset when he can hold a player up, but it's a high-risk strategy that has left him open on more than one occasion.
Sexton's overall game can compensate for a lack of 'choke' tackle. He left the field for a HIA and will not return. Ross Byrne came on, only to be taken off on the next play also due to injury.
The game is currently live on BT Sport 2.
