Adelaide Crows Captain Jordan Dawson to Miss AFL Clash After Brother's Tragic Death
Adelaide Crows captain Jordan Dawson will be absent from the team's upcoming AFL match against St Kilda as he deals with the heartbreaking loss of his older brother. Dawson's brother, Jaryd, was found dead on Wednesday following an extensive 24-hour search, marking a profound personal tragedy for the star midfielder.
The Crows are set to host St Kilda at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night, but Dawson will not take the field as he grieves with his family. In a statement, the Adelaide club expressed deep condolences, saying, "On behalf of the board, executive, staff, coaches and players, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Dawson family. Jordan is a much-loved and respected leader, and the club will be guided by him and his family as we provide the appropriate care and support."
Team Changes and Updates Across the AFL
Dawson's absence is part of four changes for Adelaide, with Jake Soligo and Mitch Hinge also sidelined due to injuries. Meanwhile, St Kilda have managed emerging tall Alix Tauru following their recent Gather Round victory over Port Adelaide.
In other AFL news, Hawthorn will debut former first-round draft pick Will McCabe on Saturday when they face Port Adelaide at Marvel Stadium. McCabe replaces injured forward Mabior Chol and star veteran Jack Gunston. Additionally, Calsher Dear has been recalled for his first game of the season. Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell praised McCabe, stating, "His mobility and athleticism have been on show from the very start. From a work ethic point of view, it took him a little while to figure out how consistently he had to ply his trade, to be at the best he could be. This pre-season, he's been really first-class in that area, he's really kicked into gear."
Elsewhere, Sydney have managed veteran defender Dane Rampe for Friday night's blockbuster derby with GWS at the SCG. The Giants face three changes, with Brent Daniels, Aaron Cadman, and Stephen Coniglio all sidelined. Gold Coast's loss of captain Noah Anderson due to appendicitis is offset by the return of star Christian Petracca and Bailey Humphrey from injury for Saturday's match against Essendon. The Bombers made just one change, resting Jaxon Prior, after their drought-breaking win last weekend.
