RUGBY fever sweeping the country in the wake of England's World Cup triumph may lead to more youngsters taking up the tough sport.

But a sports law expert at Manchester firm George Davies warned today this could lead to legal backlash, with hefty compensation claims if players are injured during matches.

Partner David Mercer said: "There have been a couple of cases where young players have sued schools and authorities after getting injured playing rugby.

"It's a matter of major concern, and we are warning head teachers that they should should make sure their pupils' participation in the sport is properly governed by trained and properly-qualified people.

"Schools must beware that for every Jonny Wilkinson produced, there will be 10 compensation claims if they don't take action."

In one recent case, a young player injured in Cheshire successfully sued his opponent's school for £100,000 after suffering injuries to his neck and ligaments. Tweet