Get ready for a thrilling weekend of AFL action as teams gear up for the 2026 AAMI Community Series, but not all stars will be shining on the field. Fremantle’s captain Alex Pearce and powerhouse ruck Sean Darcy are notably absent from the Dockers’ lineup for their clash against Adelaide, leaving their defense in a precarious position. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite his All-Australian accolades, Luke Ryan remains on the sidelines, named only as an emergency. Meanwhile, Essendon fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Zach Merrett returns to bolster the Bombers’ midfield against St Kilda. And this is the part most people miss: Adelaide’s ruck dilemma continues as Reilly O’Brien is once again overlooked in favor of Lachlan McAndrew, despite the Crows’ extensive injury list. Speaking of injuries, Adelaide’s sidelined stars include Callum Ah Chee, Izak Rankine, and Jake Soligo, among others, raising questions about their pre-season preparation. St Kilda, too, faces challenges without key players like Jack Silvagni and Max King, while Essendon’s Jade Gresham and Matt Guelfi are left out of the squad. Is this a strategic move or a missed opportunity? Let’s dive deeper. Fremantle’s lineup features a mix of experience and youth, but the absence of Pearce and Darcy could be their Achilles’ heel. Adelaide, on the other hand, is banking on McAndrew to step up in the ruck, a decision that has already sparked debate among fans. Essendon’s return of Merrett and Mason Redman adds firepower, but the exclusion of Gresham and Guelfi leaves room for speculation. What do you think—are these team selections bold moves or risky gambles? Share your thoughts below! Catch all the action exclusively on Kayo and Foxtel, with live stats and highlights on AFL.com.au. Don’t miss these matchups: St Kilda v Essendon at Mars Stadium (3.10pm AEDT) and Fremantle v Adelaide at Rushton Park (3.10pm AWST). Who will rise to the occasion? The stage is set for a weekend of surprises and strategic battles.
