Broad and Xerri Added to AFL State of Origin Squads as Cameron Faces Doubt

AFL State of Origin Squads Bolstered by Veteran and Rising Star

The AFL's highly anticipated State of Origin squads have received significant reinforcements with the addition of two prominent players. Richmond's premiership defender Nathan Broad and North Melbourne ruck Tristan Xerri are the latest names confirmed for the upcoming showcase match, bringing a mix of experience and emerging talent to the teams.

Western Australia Secures Richmond Veteran

According to 7NEWS chief AFL reporter Mitch Cleary, the 32-year-old Broad has been selected to represent Western Australia. Broad is a three-time premiership veteran with Richmond, having played a crucial role in their 2017, 2019, and 2020 grand final victories. With 170 games of experience under his belt, he was drafted as a mature-aged recruit from WAFL club Swan Districts in 2015 and became a key figure during the Tigers' golden era.

Cleary noted that Broad's inclusion means every AFL club is now represented in the squads, marking him as the first Richmond player to be picked for either team. His selection adds defensive solidity and leadership to the WA lineup.

Victoria Gains North Melbourne's Xerri

On the other side, Tristan Xerri will don the Big V jersey for Victoria. Xerri, who was unlucky to miss out on an All-Australian blazer last season, brings youthful energy and skill to the Victorian squad. His addition is seen as a boost for the team's ruck division, complementing other key players.

Injury Cloud Hangs Over Geelong Star

However, the Victorian squad faces a potential setback with Geelong's superstar forward Jeremy Cameron in growing doubt for the match. Cleary reported that Cameron, who broke his arm on grand final day four months ago, remains on a modified training program. He has been seen with his right arm heavily strapped and wearing a fluoro cap to signify no contact from teammates during training sessions.

"He's still building confidence in the injury, 12 days out from Origin," Cleary said. Cameron's likely omission would be a significant blow for Victoria, given his outstanding performance last season where he kicked 88 goals to win his second Coleman Medal.

Squad Compositions and Final Selections

The Victorian squad already includes Geelong trio Max Holmes, Tom Stewart, and Patrick Dangerfield, while their club teammate Lawson Humphries will represent WA. For Western Australia, 21 players have been publicly announced, with The West Australian revealing that West Coast forward Jake Waterman and Western Bulldogs ruck Tim English will also feature for the hosts.

Other players in contention for WA include West Coast defender Reuben Ginbey, though fellow Eagle Brady Hough is ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained in training last week. Fremantle recruit Judd McVee and veteran midfielder Jaeger O'Meara are hoping for call-ups, while Dockers' two-time leading goalkicker Josh Treacy awaits confirmation for Victoria.

Both squads are set to be finalised later this week before the teams go into camp in Perth next week. The blockbuster clash is scheduled for February 14 at Optus Stadium and will be broadcast live and free on Seven and 7plus Sport.