The AFL State of Origin puzzle has been completed with significant last-minute changes to both squads ahead of the highly anticipated clash at Optus Stadium on February 14. Victorian selectors have bolstered their line-up by adding gut-running superstar Bailey Smith, while Western Australia has suffered a setback with the withdrawal of key defender Brandon Starcevich.
Western Australia Squad Adjustments and Injury Concerns
Brandon Starcevich, the Brisbane premiership hero who joined West Coast during the off-season, has become the first player scratched from the State of Origin contest. The Eagles have opted to protect their valuable recruit, keeping him in cotton wool due to ongoing health concerns. The 26-year-old defender carries a history of concussion injuries and has been managing a minor strain in his anterior cruciate ligament sustained last month.
Despite this loss, Western Australia's squad has gained several notable additions including Eagles spearhead Jake Waterman, Fremantle veteran Jaeger O'Meara, and Western Bulldogs ruckman Tim English. The WA line-up presents an intriguing combination of explosive talent and imposing height, creating what many observers describe as a curious mix of excitement machines and tall timber.
Victorian Squad Strengths and Potential Absences
The Victorian squad boasts an impressive array of superstars, though not without potential complications. Gun Geelong forward Jeremy Cameron remains under an injury cloud and may ultimately miss his place in the team, creating uncertainty around Victoria's attacking structure.
In more positive news for Victorian supporters, Hawthorn veteran forward Jack Gunston has earned a late inclusion following his remarkable resurgence last season. The experienced campaigner turned back the clock in spectacular fashion, slotting an impressive 73 goals and forcing his way into selectors' calculations.
Additional Injury Watch and Club Negotiations
Further injury concerns extend to GWS stars Toby Greene and Jesse Hogan, with both players carrying respective glute and foot issues that will require monitoring in the lead-up to the blockbuster encounter. Their potential participation remains uncertain as medical staff assess their readiness for the high-intensity contest.
Meanwhile, an intriguing development has emerged regarding player management during the match. SEN has confirmed that clubs will exercise their rights to request specific game-time limitations for their stars participating in the State of Origin showcase. While some clubs are reportedly taking a conservative approach to protect their investments, others appear more relaxed about their players' involvement in the representative fixture.
State of Origin Revival and Broadcast Details
The return of AFL State of Origin marks a significant moment for Australian football, with the last official match occurring back in 1999. The concept boasts a rich history but was ultimately phased out as clubs grew increasingly concerned about injuries to their star players and fan interest began to dwindle.
This year's revival comes with renewed enthusiasm from both players and supporters, with the Perth encounter already declared a sellout. Fans across the nation can watch the entire spectacle live and free across the screens of Seven and 7plus Sport on February 14, ensuring broad accessibility for what promises to be a memorable return of representative football.
Confirmed Team Line-ups
Western Australia
FB: Nathan Broad, Tom Barrass, Trent Rivers
HB: Jordan Clark, Sam Taylor, Liam Baker
C: Wil Powell, Patrick Cripps, Bradley Hill
HF: Shai Bolton, Aaron Naughton, Callum Ah Chee
FF: Luke Jackson, Jesse Hogan, Charlie Cameron
FOLL: Tim English, Chad Warner, Kysaiah Pickett
Int: Mitch Georgiades, Rory Lobb, Jaeger O'Meara, Lawson Humphries, Darcy Cameron, Stephen Coniglio, Jake Waterman
Victoria
FB: Josh Battle, Jacob Weitering, Blake Hardwick
HB: Jack Sinclair, Tom Stewart, Max Holmes
C: Hugh McCluggage, Marcus Bontempelli, Bailey Smith
HF: Ed Richards, Jeremy Cameron, Zak Butters
FF: Toby Greene, Sam Darcy, Patrick Dangerfield
FOLL: Max Gawn, Noah Anderson, Nick Daicos
I/C: Matt Rowell, Jack Gunston, Lachie Ash, Zach Merrett, Caleb Serong, Tristan Xerri, Sam Collins
The stage is now set for what promises to be an electrifying return of AFL State of Origin football, with both squads featuring a blend of established stars and emerging talent ready to represent their states with pride.
