Key Cats stay home

STAR forward Jeremy Cameron and Norm Smith medallist Isaac Smith have been rested from Geelong’s AFL practice match against the Brisbane Lions on Thursday night.

Both played against Hawthorn last week but didn’t make the trip to the Queensland capital.

Jeremy and Isaac haven’t missed a beat through pre-season and are in a good position,” Cats football boss Simon Lloyd said.

“We have got what we need through a large number of training sessions and last week’s match simulation against Hawthorn.”

Gold Coast recruit Jack Bowes also won’t play.

However, after a 2022 season impacted by a lingering concussion issue, Sam Simpson has been named in the 26-man squad along with uncapped youngster Cooper Whyte.

After missing last week’s clash with Hawthorn, livewire forward Gary Rohan will feature alongside fellow excitement machine Ollie Henry for the first time.

Geelong couldn’t consider Jack Henry after he underwent foot surgery earlier this week, while veteran forward Tom Hawkins is on the comeback trail from his own foot surgery.

The Cats confirmed that Mitch Duncan is returning to full fitness after a calf injury.

“Mitch had a minor calf setback several weeks ago,” Lloyd said.

“He has been running for some time and is progressing well with his load volumes.

“As per last season, we’ll take all the time we need to ensure Mitch is in the best shape for the season.

“We won’t be pressured by a timeline and will focus on the bigger picture.”

K rock Football is live from 7pm Thursday

AFL PRACTICE MATCH 

Brisbane Lions vs. Geelong

Brighton Homes Arena

Thursday, March 2, 8:10pm (AEDT)