Adelaide Crows’ Mark Keane Suffers Severe Ankle Injury in Training Session
Adelaide Crows defender Mark Keane has sustained a severe ankle injury during a training session, jeopardizing his participation in the upcoming 2026 AFL season.
Incident Details
The injury occurred when Keane, 25, collided with teammate Finnbar Maley in a marking contest. He landed awkwardly, causing his right ankle to dislocate. Immediate attention was required as Keane realized the severity of his injury.
A video capturing the moment shows Keane visibly distressed after the incident. Initially, he attempted to reset his ankle but needed assistance to be transported off the field.
Impact on the Team
Keane’s potential absence creates a significant gap for the Crows. Last season, he played all 25 games, proving to be a vital member of the squad. His teammates rallied around him as he exited the field, understanding the implications of his injury.
Scans and Prognosis
Following the incident, Keane will undergo scans to evaluate the extent of the ligament and bone damage associated with his dislocated ankle. Concerns are high regarding whether he might miss a significant portion of the season.
This injury adds to the Crows’ struggles, as they recently lost young talent Dan Curtin to a dislocated kneecap. Curtin was hurt on January 19 during a wrestling drill but fortunately did not suffer further damage. He has undergone surgery to address underlying issues.
Player Sentiments
Curtin expressed optimism about his recovery, stating, “I have taken a lot of positives out of it.” He emphasized the importance of addressing the issue now to ensure a stronger comeback.
Upcoming Season Considerations
- Adelaide Crows begin their season against Collingwood on March 14.
- Maley, who was involved in the incident, had been supporting Curtin during his rehabilitation.
With these challenges ahead, the Crows are at a crucial juncture as they prepare for their opening game of the season. The team will be closely monitoring the recovery of both Keane and Curtin in anticipation of their return to the field.