The early mail is trickling out with updates ahead of Round 23, headlined by Lachie Ash, Nick Daicos and a long list of debutants.
Lachie Ash left the track early on GWS Giants training on Thursday, having spent more than half the final term on the bench last round.
However, GWS coach Adam Kingsley downplayed the situation. He said: “Like most guys this time of year, so we manage him, get him ready for the game. He’ll be fine.”
Similarly, Collingwood coach Craig McRae was asked about managing his banged-up players, namely Nick Daicos.
McRae said: “He didn’t train last week. That’s real. With the five-day turnaround, you like to keep your Ferraris ready to go. But we’re in good shape.”
In further selection news, West Coast confirmed mid-season draftee Jacob Newton will make his debut on Sunday. He’s a midfield-forward who went with pick 9 in the Mid-Season Rookie Draft and is averaging 12 disposals, 4 tackles and a goal in 6 WAFL games.
Brisbane will debut defender Luke Beecken. He’s a dashing rebound defender who is a 2024 Mid-Season Rookie Draftee, taken with pick 17 from Woodville West Torrens.
St Kilda confirmed a debut for 203cm Alex Dodson after excellent VFL form. The 19-year-old was taken with pick 53 in the 2024 AFL Draft and his addition could impact Rowan Marshall’s role, although he’s likely come in for Max Heath.
Essendon revealed another debutant with Rhys Unwin to play AFL footy for the first time. He’s a 179cm midfielder who was taken with pick 61 in the 2024 AFL Draft.
North named 207cm ruck Taylor Goad in their 26-man squad with Brynn Teakle dropped, meaning he could make his debut after going with pick 20 in the 2023 Draft.
The Bulldogs confirmed earlier in the week that father-son Jordan Croft will debut, while 203cm tall Lachlan Smith was also named in their extended squad.
