Racing
League
Rugby
Cricket
Golf
Motorsport
Combat Sports
Football
Netball
Basketball
Other Sports
Sport Nation
Live sport on SN this weekendInjury puts dampener on super impressive opening night for Hawthorn
Ethan Clark • March 8th, 2025 11:33 am
Injury to Peter Crimmins medallist James Worpel has marred what was a compelling 20-point Hawthorn victory over Sydney last night.
The 26-year-old had collected 11 disposals just before half-time when a crunching tackle from Swans ruckman Brodie Grundy caused him to hobble off the field and not return with right ankle damage.
Speaking to the media in the post-match press conference, coach Sam Mitchell explained the reaction of his work-horse midfielder after he was subbed out of the game.
“I said, ‘Is it one of those ones that will be ok in a couple of days or one of those six-weekers?’ And he goes, ‘I’ll be alright’,” Mitchell said.
“I’ve got no idea… he could play this week, or he could be out for a while, I actually don’t have an update yet.
“I hope he just rolled his ankle.”
Channel 7’s Xander McGuire says the early signs are that of a “suspected syndesmosis injury” which could see him out for 4-6 weeks without surgery, or much longer term if he goes under the knife.
The Hawks return home to the MCG next Friday night where they face Essendon, likely without Worpel, in what promises to be a rollicking affair in front of a bumper crowd.
