Friday’s early mail has dropped with key updates on Charlie Curnow, Zac Williams, Izak Rankine, Dan Curtin, Liam Baker and many more.
Carlton coach Michael Voss provided an update on Charlie Curnow’s availability following an ankle concern. He said: “No, he’s got to get through some parts of training today. We’re not going to ask him to do everything. But if he does enough to prove his fitness, then he’ll play. Very confident.”
With Adam Cerra and Matthew Cottrell out, Voss was asked about Jaxon Binns’ selection chances. He said: “He’s been on the edge for a number of weeks. His form has been really good. He’s progressing really well over the last couple of weeks. Of course you consider every single player and what they can fulfil within this team.”
Voss said Zac Williams (hamstring) would be available if he gets through training.
Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks discussed the likely role of the returning Izak Rankine after 4 weeks out suspended. He said: “He’s ready as far as he’s concerned. He’s in great condition. He’s worked right throughout the break. Unlike an injury, he’s able to get as much physical work in.
“He’ll play a number of different roles for us. He’ll be very important for us. The expectation is it may take a little while for the touch to come back. Although if there’s a player that you trust can come back in with some natural talent, he’s one of them.
Nicks was also asked about Dan Curtin’s role after being a late sub last week. He said: “DC will be playing. I know everyone will be looking ‘ah geez I hope he gets a bit more time’. We spoke in the post game about why that decision was made… He’s a great young kid. He’s still learning the game. He’ll get a crack at it this week.”
Nicks wouldn’t confirm if he wouldn’t be sub and added: “We’re really confident of what Dan will develop into. He’s probably got a couple of other strengths too. He’s shown he can play on ball. We’ll continue to work on a couple of other areas that might expose him and we’ll see something different from him.”
Richmond confirmed Liam Baker will miss 2 games due to concussion protocols. The Tigers said in a statement: “Baker unfortunately suffered a concussion during this morning’s main training session.
“Baker will now enter the 12-day concussion protocols and be unavailable for selection for the next two games.”
Port coach Ken Hinkley said Mitch Georgiades injured his quad at training on Wednesday and will miss this week and possibly next.
