A knee problem will keep star forward Lance Franklin out of next month’s International Rules Test but Australia’s squad still boasts plenty of firepower to face Ireland.
A who’s who of AFL stars has been named for the November 22 clash at Perth’s Patersons Stadium, with rising stars like Nat Fyfe, Patrick Dangerfield and Nic Naitanui joining wily veterans Brent Harvey, Nick Riewoldt, Steve Johnson, Luke Hodge and Sam Mitchell.
Sydney forward Franklin, Collingwood’s Scott Pendlebury (shoulder) and Gold Coast’s Gary Ablett (shoulder) are notable omissions, while Dockers goalsneak Hayden Ballantyne (jaw) also couldn’t be considered.
Franklin managed a knee issue for much of the season, and didn’t want to be risked for the one-off Test.
To be considered for selection, players have to be either a current or former All-Australian.
The selection criteria means Brownlow medallist Matt Priddis couldn’t be considered.
Australian squad: Grant Birchall, Travis Boak, Luke Breust, Patrick Dangerfield, Dustin Fletcher, Nat Fyfe, Brendon Goddard, Robbie Gray, Brent Harvey, Luke Hodge, Kieren Jack, Steve Johnson, Jarrad McVeigh, Sam Mitchell, Leigh Montagna, Nic Naitanui, Nick Riewoldt, Tom Rockliff, Joel Selwood, Brodie Smith, Nick Smith, Harry Taylor, Jobe Watson, Chad Wingard.
Jack Smith
Roar Guru
Is it the Batmobile? Is it the Knight Rider? No, oh crap its Franklin in The Jeep. :)
Leapin Leo
Guest
Yeah, sadly I've got a knee problem so won't be able to get to the game either. And I was so looking forw... oh look, what's that bright shiny thing over there :-O
Jack Smith
Roar Guru
It is a good squad. Be interesting to see where they play everyone. Fletcher in goal as keeper is a given I expect.