Wallabies star loose forward David Pocock has been praised for his sportsmanship during the first Bledisloe Cup test against the All Blacks in Sydney
The 30-year-old is known for being one of the game’s nice guys and he displayed those traits during the 38-13 defeat to New Zealand.
Pocock was applauded for his class, after he ran to the aid of All Blacks second-five Ryan Crotty, who was knocked out in a head clash with teammate Jack Goodhue early in the match.
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Pocock stayed with the floored All Blacks until help arrived.
While Pocock's actions weren’t recognised at the time, they certainly didn't go unnoticed, as All Blacks flanker Sam Cane praised the Zimbabwe-born product.
"It speaks pretty highly of his character and the type of guy he is, if he's willing to put the battle to one side in that moment and put the player's welfare first," said Cane, after the game.
"So, thank you, David."
It was Crotty's sixth concussion in the last 18 months and has ruled him out of Saturday's test at Eden Park.
Either Anton Lienert-Brown or Ngani Laumape will start at number 12 for New Zealand next weekend, while All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is considering Hurricanes centre Vince Aso as an addition to his squad.
Cane, who has had his own concussion troubles, admitted he was concerned for Crotty’s future.
"It's not nice to see - it's just a tough injury.
"Everything else has a time frame, but there's just so much unknown with head knocks and it seems like you can be only one away, if it's the wrong one, from it being the end of it.
"I've seen that with a few mates. It certainly helps you appreciate every week and every game you have, and realising how fickle it can be."
Ryan Crotty's sister, Shea, has voiced her concerns on Twitter over her brother’s concussion issues.
"I want to see my brother grow old and able, not battling the brain forever," she said.
Pocock is on the comeback trail, after taking a sabbatical in 2017.
During his time off the field, the 30-year-old has spoken out over human rights, environmental and animal welfare issues. He is also a supporter of same-sex marriage - the opposite view of Wallabies teammate Israel Folau.
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