Carlton Football Club is maintaining a guarded yet hopeful stance regarding the fitness of vice-captain Jacob Weitering, with his availability for the highly anticipated Opening Round clash against Sydney hanging in the balance. The key defender suffered a significant setback last month, sustaining a broken rib during the revived State of Origin event, casting immediate doubt on his participation in the season’s commencement.
Despite the severity of the injury, club sources indicate Weitering has remained firmly within selection calculations. Teammate George Hewett provided insight into the cautious optimism permeating the club, stating the defender must successfully navigate this week’s training sessions to be considered. “He’s got to get through this week,” Hewett emphasized. “We hope he’s a good chance, but he’s got to train today and we play Thursday, so (train again on) Tuesday, and hopefully he’s right to go. He’s been doing as much as he can… he looks in good shape.”
The potential absence of Weitering would deliver a substantial tactical blow to Carlton’s defensive structure, particularly in their mission to contain former teammate Charlie Curnow. The star forward sought a move to Sydney at the conclusion of last season, setting the stage for a compelling narrative in Thursday’s encounter.
Hewett, who himself transitioned between these two clubs in 2021, downplayed any extra motivation in facing a former teammate. “(We’re) just going to treat it like another game,” he remarked. “He’s in a different team now, he was a great servant at this club, but things move on quickly. Six months ago, some players in the AFL wouldn’t have thought they’d be at certain clubs, and it happens, so you’ve just got to move on very quickly.”
The midfielder emphasized focus on fundamental responsibilities rather than personal narratives, adding: “I think if you worry about that, you’re not worrying about the ball and your role, so once the ball bounces, you get pretty fixated on what you need to do. It’s going to be an exciting game and it will be good for the viewers to watch, which is cool.”