Brisbane Lions young gun Will Ashcroft has been sensationally denied the chance to pull on the Big V jumper, with the AFL performing a late backflip on State of Origin eligibility rules.
Rule Change Blocks Rising Star's Victorian Dream
The highly anticipated AFL State of Origin clash for bushfire relief has been hit by a major selection bombshell. Will Ashcroft, the brilliant Brisbane Lions midfielder and 2023 Rising Star winner, has been ruled ineligible to represent Victoria due to a late interpretation change by the league. This decision overturns the initial understanding that players could choose which state to represent if they were eligible for multiple regions.
Ashcroft, born and raised in Melbourne, was widely expected to be a marquee selection for the Victorian side. His father, triple-premiership Lion Marcus Ashcroft, played for Queensland in State of Origin, making Will eligible for both states. The initial framework suggested player choice would be honoured, but the AFL has now enforced a stricter rule based on the father's state representation.
Clarification Creates Confusion and Disappointment
The AFL's clarification means eligibility is now primarily determined by which state a player's father represented at senior level. Since Marcus Ashcroft played for Queensland, his son is now locked into representing the Maroons. This ruling also impacts other dual-eligible players like Gold Coast's Sam Flanders and North Melbourne's Harry Sheezel, who may now be required to align with their father's state.
The decision has caused significant disappointment, particularly for Ashcroft, who was reportedly keen to play for Victoria. It also presents a headache for Victorian selectors, who lose one of the game's most exciting young talents from their potential squad. The match, scheduled for February at Marvel Stadium, aims to raise crucial funds for community football and the Australian Red Cross disaster relief.
Impact on Marquee Match and Future Selection
This eligibility twist adds a complex layer to team selection for the showcase event. While strengthening Queensland's potential lineup, it depletes Victorian midfield depth. Selectors for the Big V, led by coach Chris Scott, must now look elsewhere to fill the void left by Ashcroft's absence.
The AFL's move aims to simplify selection criteria and avoid protracted debates over player allegiance. However, it has inevitably sparked controversy, with fans and pundits questioning the timing and communication of the rule. The league maintains that this clear, father-based rule is the most straightforward method for a one-off match.
As preparations continue, all eyes will be on the final team announcements to see how both states adapt their strategies following this significant eligibility clarification.
