In a significant development ahead of the highly anticipated AFL Origin match, Victoria's campaign has been dealt a major setback with the confirmation that star forward Jeremy Cameron will not participate. The reigning Coleman medallist is set to be officially ruled out, providing Western Australia with a notable advantage as they prepare for the heavyweight showdown.
Injury Sidelines Key Victorian Forward
Jeremy Cameron, who was among the first players selected for Origin duty when squads began assembling last year, has been under an injury cloud while recovering from a broken arm sustained during Geelong's grand final defeat. With just six days remaining until the clash, it has been confirmed that Cameron - whose 736 goals represent the highest tally of any current AFL player - will not make the journey west to face Western Australia.
This development represents a substantial break for the Western Australian team, who now face a Victorian side missing one of their most potent offensive weapons. Cameron's absence creates a significant void in Victoria's forward structure that the coaching staff must now address through strategic adjustments.
Ben King Steps Into the Spotlight
Gold Coast Suns forward Ben King has earned a late call-up to replace Cameron in the Victorian squad, bringing his own impressive credentials to the high-stakes encounter. King is coming off a career-best season in 2025, during which he booted 71 goals across 25 games and finished as runner-up in the Coleman Medal race.
The 25-year-old forward also boasts a strong record at Perth's Optus Stadium, having kicked six goals in Gold Coast's round-one victory over West Coast at the venue last season. This proven performance at the match location adds valuable confidence to his selection as Cameron's replacement.
Formidable Victorian Forward Line Takes Shape
Despite Cameron's absence, Victoria will field a formidable forward structure that includes several of the competition's most dangerous attacking players. Ben King will join a star-studded lineup featuring Western Bulldogs father-son sensation Sam Darcy, Greater Western Sydney captain Toby Greene, Hawthorn veteran Jack Gunston, and likely Geelong captain Patrick Dangerfield.
The Victorian squad, which gathered in Perth on Wednesday ahead of main training sessions on Thursday, also includes recent additions such as Geelong superstar Bailey Smith, Fremantle vice-captain Caleb Serong, and reigning Brownlow medallist Matt Rowell. This depth of talent ensures that despite Cameron's absence, Victoria remains a formidable opponent.
Betting Markets Reflect Victorian Favouritism
Sports betting markets continue to position Victoria as strong favourites for the Origin clash, with TABTouch listing the visitors at $1.38 despite Cameron's withdrawal. Western Australia, positioned as underdogs, are paying $3.00 to claim what would be considered an upset victory on home soil.
The absence of Jeremy Cameron undoubtedly alters the dynamic of the contest, but Victorian selectors have moved swiftly to secure a quality replacement in Ben King. As both teams complete their final preparations, all eyes will be on how this late change impacts what promises to be a fiercely contested AFL Origin encounter.
