Sydney Swans’ Tall Timber Takes a Hit with Double Injury Blow
The Sydney Swans’ depth in their ruck department has been significantly tested with two key tall players facing periods on the sidelines due to separate injuries. Ruckman Will Green has suffered a serious foot injury, while Peter Ladhams is also set for time off the park, casting a shadow over the club’s immediate plans for their big men.
Will Green’s Unfortunate Mishap
The unfortunate incident involving Will Green occurred on Thursday night at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The young ruck prospect, who was in the stands supporting his teammates during the Swans’ clash against Hawthorn, sustained a foot injury after tripping down a set of stairs. While the details are still emerging, it is understood that Green has broken a bone in his foot.
This injury has forced Green to be withdrawn from the Swans’ VFL match against the Box Hill Hawks, scheduled for Friday. He has since undergone scans to assess the full extent of the damage. A definitive timeline for his return to football has not yet been established, but he will be evaluated further upon his return to Sydney.
Green, a 204cm prospect, was recruited by the Swans in the 2023 draft, selected with Pick 13 from the Northcote Junior Football Club. He has been developing under the guidance of experienced ruckman Brodie Grundy and has been a consistent performer for the reserves over the past two seasons. In 36 games for the Swans’ VFL side, Green has averaged an impressive 14.1 hitouts, 9.4 disposals, and 3.1 tackles, while also contributing offensively with 15 goals. His absence will undoubtedly be felt in the VFL program as he recovers.
Ladhams Also Facing Sideline Stint
Compounding the Swans’ concerns about their tall stocks, Peter Ladhams is also facing a period on the sidelines. Ladhams sustained his injury during the VFL game against the Box Hill Hawks on Friday. The exact nature of his injury is still being assessed, but it is understood to have resulted from a mistimed bump during the match.
The double blow to their ruck division comes at a critical juncture for the Swans. While the club is yet to release official details on Ladhams’ injury, the prospect of both Green and Ladhams being unavailable for an extended period will place further pressure on the remaining players in the squad and may necessitate adjustments to their game plans.
Broader Injury Concerns for the Swans
These recent setbacks add to a growing list of injury concerns for the Sydney Swans. The club has also recently reported that Errol Gulden has undergone shoulder surgery. Furthermore, the team was notably without the influence of star player Isaac Heeney during their recent clash with the Hawks.
The senior side is currently preparing for a bye in Round 3, which will provide a much-needed respite for some players and allow others to continue their recovery. Following the bye, the Swans are scheduled to return to action with a trip to Perth to face West Coast. The club is expected to provide further updates on the condition of both Green and Ladhams in the coming days. The depth of their playing list will be put to the test as they navigate these challenges.
