West Coast Eagles Defender Harry Edwards Poised for Return Against North Melbourne
West Coast Eagles defender Harry Edwards is on track to resume from concussion in Sunday's clash with a multi-pronged North Melbourne forward line at Optus Stadium. Edwards is progressing through the AFL's concussion protocols after suffering a heavy hit in the Eagles' pre-season practice match against Port Adelaide.
His return would ease the pressure on defensive pillars Tylar Young and Reuben Ginbey, following the Roos' 17-goal performance in a round one win over the Power, steered by Nick Larkey with four goals, Cooper Trembath with three, and Cameron Zurhaar with two.
Injury Updates and Team Availability
High performance manager Phil Merriman confirmed Edwards' status, stating, "Harry will be in full training this week with the plan to be available for selection." Co-captain Liam Baker and Harry Schoenberg will also be available after serving suspensions.
However, four other Eagles remain sidelined for another week:
- Elijah Hewett (quad) – scans showed a small strain, likely available round three.
- Tom Gross (hamstring) – close to full training this week.
- Sandy Brock (ankle) – moderate grade injury, aiming for round three.
- Jack Williams (calf) – small strain, hopeful for next week.
High-profile recruit Brandon Starcevich is listed as three weeks away from a calf injury, with Merriman noting, "Given he has had an inconsistent build into the season, we will make sure we set him up for the season ahead."
Long-Term Injuries and Rehabilitation Progress
Midfielder Jack Hutchinson (ankle) and first-year player Fred Rodriguez (foot) are set to resume in 5-7 weeks. Draftee Sam Allen continues to build towards the end stages of his knee rehabilitation.
In unfortunate news, forward Tyler Brockman has suffered a further setback on a knee injury, requiring surgery to clear out an infection, and will be sidelined for six weeks. Small forward Noah Long underwent reconstructive surgery on his damaged ACL on Monday.
North Melbourne's Boost with Key Returns
Meanwhile, North Melbourne is set to be boosted by the return of premier midfielder George Wardlaw, who missed round one with a hamstring injury. Head of performance Kevin White said, "George completed a game-loading football conditioning session over the weekend. He's also passed through all strength testing metrics and monitoring."
Last time Wardlaw played at Optus, he racked up a career-high 10 clearances from 21 disposals to help stave off a final quarter comeback as the Roos held on by nine points.
Former Demon Charlie Spargo is also a chance to feature after overcoming a concussion, while Swan Districts product Riley Hardeman could return after a successful VFL comeback from an ankle injury over the weekend.
