The finals of the Indian Super League (ISL) played between ATK Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City FC ended on a worrisome note as MCFC defender Amey Ranawade had to be rushed to the hospital off the field at the Fatorda stadium. Ranawade is suspected to have sustained a head injury while going for a sliding tackle. He was in tremendous pain and was unable to stand up initially despite efforts from the medics on the ground. Hopefully the injury is not of a serious nature.
It is seen that football players are also susceptible to head injuries as there can be a clash of heads when opposing players try to head the ball. Shouldn’t the football world governing body (FIFA) allow all players to wear a head-gear? This head-gear need not be a helmet like in cricket but a soft protection in order to take the impact of a collision. International football Czech goalkeeper Petr Cech from Chelsea is always seen wearing a head-gear. He fractured his skull and had to undergo surgery after a clash with an opposing forward in October 2006.
As per FIFA’s “Equipment Regulations”, Section 22, only the goalkeeper is permitted to wear a head-gear which could be extended for all players.
