Brisbane's upcoming titanic showdown faces uncertainty regarding the participation of Geelong's seasoned player, Rhys Stanley.

Geelong's Finals Preparations: Injury Concerns and Returning Stars

Geelong, one of the AFL's top contenders, is facing a potential challenge in their qualifying final against Brisbane, with star ruckman Rhys Stanley potentially sidelined due to a hamstring concern. According to Mitch Cleary, the chief AFL reporter for our website, Stanley has been absent from training this week, and his spot in the team is uncertain.

The Cats, however, have received a boost with the return of Mitch Duncan, who has served a suspension and missed the final-round win over Richmond. Neale's inclusion is likely to be one of two changes, with Irish gun Mark O'Connor also in line to return.

If Stanley is unavailable, Mark Blicavs, Sam De Koning, and Shannon Neale are the other options for Geelong in the ruck. The Cats are yet to announce a replacement, but they are expected to call up a player from their broader squad for the crucial match.

Rhys Stanley has had an impressive season, playing 18 games and performing admirably in the ruck. His potential absence could be a significant loss for the team, given his contributions in the midfield.

Meanwhile, Geelong's star midfielder, Max Holmes, will play his 100th game in the finals. Holmes has maintained his sensational form this season, averaging 26.9 disposals and 619 meters gained. His performance has been greatly influenced by the addition of Bailey Smith to the team, with Smith being vocal about his personal experiences and struggles with mental health.

Holmes, who has kicked 11 goals this season, has thrived under Smith's guidance and openness. The team's trust in Smith due to his openness about his mental health journey was evident when Smith shared his experiences at the AFL's awards night, discussing his time in a mental health facility last year. His discussion was appreciated by the team, and Holmes stated that he won't be carrying the type of mental baggage that plagued his previous finals series.

Holmes, who has a history of hamstring injuries in the finals series, including missing the 2022 grand final and being substituted out of last year's preliminary final loss to the Lions due to hamstring injuries, has expressed confidence this time around.

Smith's openness about his mental health journey has not only helped him but also the team, creating a supportive environment that could prove crucial in their finals campaign. The Cats will look to carry this positive energy into their qualifying final against Brisbane.

Brisbane's upcoming titanic showdown faces uncertainty regarding the participation of Geelong's seasoned player, Rhys Stanley.