Key Stars Absent: Magpies, Port Pair, Eagle Face Setbacks
Collingwood and Port Adelaide face significant player absences ahead of their respective clashes in the 2026 AAMI Community Series. The Magpies will be missing prominent stars including Nick Daicos, who is a key figure for the team.
Magpies Without Key Stars
Collingwood has confirmed that they will be without several experienced players during their match against North Melbourne on Sunday. Missing from the lineup are:
- Nick Daicos
- Scott Pendlebury
- Steele Sidebottom
- Jack Crisp
- Jeremy Howe (injured)
- Jamie Elliott
- Jordan De Goey
The absence of six of their seven most veteran players poses a challenge for the Magpies as they prepare for their opening round against St Kilda.
Despite these challenges, North Melbourne is expected to field a solid squad, featuring Tom Blamires, who has recently joined through the supplemental selection period.
Port Adelaide’s Setbacks
Port Adelaide also faces a tough situation with significant absentees. Miles Bergman will be unavailable due to a foot injury, and veteran Ollie Wines has been left out once again. Other key players missing include:
- Jack Lukosius (groin)
- Sam Powell-Pepper
- Brandon Zerk-Thatcher
However, the Power welcomes back Zak Butters and Mitch Georgiades, who had recently participated in AAMI AFL Origin duties.
West Coast Eagles Miss Important Players
The West Coast Eagles are equally impacted by injuries. Key players who will not participate include:
- Liam Duggan (head knock)
- Tim Kelly (hamstring tightness)
- Jack Graham (hamstring)
- Brandon Starcevich (strained calf)
Additionally, Reuben Ginbey and Noah Long are sidelined due to injury, with Milan Murdock not included in the squad.
Game Schedule
The matches are scheduled for:
- North Melbourne vs. Collingwood at Mars Stadium, 3:10 PM AEDT
- West Coast vs. Port Adelaide at Mineral Resources Park, 3:10 PM AWST
Fans can catch all the action via Kayo and Foxtel, while live stats and match details will be available on AFL.com.au.
