Geelong has left the door open for Rhys Stanley to play a role in its premiership campaign as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.
The 34-year-old ruckman missed the Cats’ stirring qualifying final win over the Brisbane Lions after hurting his right hamstring at training early last week.
“Rhys has progressed over the last couple of days and will begin to reintegrate into football-based drills next week,” football boss Andrew Mackie said.
“As Chris (Scott) mentioned post-game, Rhys’ availability would be unlikely if we were playing this week.
“But with the benefit of the bye, we are optimistic on his return to play this finals series.”
Luckless big man Toby Conway is set for surgery later this week on a mid-foot injury suffered in the VFL last month.
The decision to put the 206cm, 22-year-old under the knife followed consultation between Geelong’s medical team and specialists.
“Toby is a long-term player for us, and with this in mind, we expect his return to be in the early stages of 2026.”
After missing the first half of the season following a pre-season back issue, Conway returned to play three VFL games.
The last of his six AFL matches came in Round 12 last year.
Ongoing hip soreness has ended the season of veteran defender Jake Kolodnashij.
The recently turned 30-year-old failed to add to his 198 AFL matches this year.
“In order to optimise off-season recovery time and address underlying causes, the decision was made to proceed with minor hip surgery, ruling him out for the rest of the season,” Mackie said.
“Whilst unfortunate for Jake, we expect him to be ready to rejoin the group at the commencement of 2026 pre-season.”
Meanwhile, Geelong’s AFLW team is set to welcome back key defender Claudia Gunjaca from a toe injury for Sunday’s clash with Richmond at Princes Park.
Gunjaca was a late withdrawal from the Cats’ lineup that registered its first win of the campaign against Essendon.
Veteran big Kate Darby (calf) and volleyball convert Caitie Tipping (knee) are listed as being 1-2 weeks away.
However, experienced forward Shelley Scott’s calf injury is not progressing as hoped, with Round 10 her best hope for a return.
Chloe Scheer remains listed as indefinite with a knee injury.
X: @krockfootball
