The AFL's Round 23 is shaping up to be a thrilling affair, with several clubs facing crucial selection dilemmas and the potential for blockbuster clashes. The red-hot Blues and ladder-leading Dockers are among those with tough calls to make, while an in-demand Hawk is set to be considered for a crucial match against Collingwood.
The Dockers, fresh off a thrilling win over Melbourne, are licking their wounds and assessing their options. Alex Pearce is set to return, but the question remains: who will be omitted? History suggests Oscar McDonald might be the unlucky one, but his strong form, including a stellar performance against Jacob van Rooyen, could keep him in the side. This decision could impact Brennan Cox or Luke Ryan, adding an intriguing layer to the Dockers' selection dilemma.
Meanwhile, the Crows are preparing for a crucial road test against Richmond, with a chance to stay in the top four. They welcome back several players, including Lachlan McAndrew and Jake Soligo, who were managed in their recent win over the Tigers. The return of Darcy Fogarty from suspension adds further depth to their midfield. However, there's uncertainty surrounding James Borlase and Luke Nankervis, with Reilly O'Brien and Archie Ludowyke likely making way for McAndrew and Fogarty.
The Tigers, on the other hand, are facing a challenging fixture against St Kilda. They suffered a gallant loss to Richmond, missing out on a chance to secure a top-four spot. Noah Balta's availability and Luke Trainor's return from suspension are the only imminent changes. The VFL has seen young forwards Harry Armstrong and Jasper Alger make their mark, while Ollie Hayes-Brown and Campbell Gray challenge for senior spots.
St Kilda, coming off a disastrous loss to Carlton, faces multiple forced changes. Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is set to miss the rest of the season with a hamstring injury, and Mason Wood's calf injury will sideline him. Liam Ryan and Tom De Koning, who played through issues, will be monitored. Brad Hill's recovery from a knee injury and Jack Silvagni's dislocated shoulder add complexity to the Saints' selection process.
North Melbourne and Geelong will face off at Marvel Stadium, with the Kangaroos' defender Aidan Corr under an injury cloud. If he misses, Josh Goater could return, while Luke McDonald's calf injury is also a concern. The Cats, dealing with the Jake Kolodjashnij saga, are in good health, with Patrick Dangerfield set to return from a hip issue. Young ruckman Mitch Edwards' availability adds further depth.
The Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast Suns will clash at the Gabba, with the Lions in great shape after a comprehensive win over Hawthorn. They could welcome back Hugh McCluggage, who missed the Hawks game with calf tightness. Sam Marshall, Lincoln McCarthy, and Will McLachlan all impressed in the VFL, but their AFL recall remains uncertain. The Suns, on the other hand, are snapping a losing streak against GWS, with Sam Collins and young players like Jai Murray and Dylan Patterson in the frame for selection.
Hawthorn faces a must-win game against Collingwood, with an intriguing selection week ahead. The Hawks are at full strength, and Sam Mitchell has the challenge of deciding on the right combination. Bailey Macdonald's strong form and Calsher Dear's potential lifeline add complexity. The Magpies, fresh off a win over West Coast, could welcome back Jordan De Goey and Scott Pendlebury, providing a boost to their young team.
Port Adelaide and Melbourne will face off at Adelaide Oval, with Jason Horne-Francis cleared of a serious knee injury. He could yet play against Melbourne, but the Power's star midfielder, Zak Butters, is unlikely to return this season. The Demons, fresh off a thrilling win over the Dockers, are expected to keep their winning formula intact, with Latrelle Pickett and Xavier Lindsay in the frame for changes.
The Giants and Eagles will face off in a crucial match at ENGIE Stadium. The Giants' season is on life support after a loss to Gold Coast, with key players exiting early. Toby Greene's quick recovery and a strong VFL performance by players like Conor Stone and Oskar Taylor offer some hope. The Eagles, led by Andrew McQualter, are assessing options after a loss to Collingwood, with Harley Reid's corked thigh a concern.
The Western Bulldogs and Carlton will clash at Marvel Stadium, with the Bulldogs facing a selection headache after a disappointing loss to the Kangaroos. Tim English's MCL damage could rule him out for the rest of the season, with Caleb May and Harvey Gallagher pressing their cases. The Blues, on the other hand, are in great shape, with Jacob Weitering's return from the VFL adding depth to their backline. The All-Australian's quality is unquestioned, but his return could impact Wade Derksen or Lewis Young.
Essendon and Sydney Swans will face off at the MCG, with the Bombers seeking changes after a loss to Geelong. Angus Clarke's potential return from concussion and Darcy Parish's calf issue add complexity. The Swans, fresh off a dominant win over Port Adelaide, could welcome back Brodie Grundy, with Jesse Dattoli impressing in his debut. The VFL side had a bye, providing an opportunity for players to make their case.
Round 23 promises to be a thrilling showcase of AFL football, with crucial selection dilemmas, blockbuster clashes, and the potential for surprising outcomes.
