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Live sport on SN this weekendStar Hawk in trouble following dangerous pre-season tackle
SEN • February 28th, 2026 3:21 pm
Hawthorn’s newest captain, Jai Newcombe, could be in doubt for the side’s Opening Round clash against the Giants.
In the Hawks’ 44-point loss to the Western Bulldogs at Whitten Oval on Friday, the star midfielder would lay a tackle on Ed Richards, whose head made contact with the ground after being left in a compromised position.
Newcombe’s case isn’t helped by the fact that he had pinned one of Richard’s arms during the tackle.
A suspension for the 24-year-old will now be dependent on whether the MRO deems the impact made was low or medium.
If graded as medium, then a one-match suspension would apply.
He would then join the likes of Cam McKenzie, who needed further testing following a concussion during the match.
For the Bulldogs, Ryley Sanders will miss their clash against the reigning premiers, the Brisbane Lions, after failing a HIA (Head Injury Assessment) following his concussion.
The Hawks and Giants will play each other on March 7 at ENGIE Stadium with the match starting at 4:15pm AEDT.
