Suns Star Matt Rowell Sidelined After Origin Injury
Gold Coast Suns’ star midfielder, Matt Rowell, is facing an extended stint on the sidelines after scans confirmed a broken hand sustained during the recent AFL Origin showcase. The setback means the highly-rated 24-year-old will miss the crucial opening rounds of the upcoming season, dealing a significant blow to the Suns’ early campaign hopes.
Rowell was a prominent figure in the exhibition match, but his participation was cut short when he was seen finishing the game on the bench. Upon returning to Queensland, diagnostic scans revealed the extent of the injury. Surgery is scheduled for later this week, after which a clearer timeline for his return to senior selection will be established.
The former number one draft pick was already a guaranteed absentee for the Suns’ Opening Round fixture against last year’s grand finalists, Geelong. This latest injury further complicates his ability to build momentum for the season, impacting his prospects of replicating his Brownlow Medal-winning form from 2025.
Suns Head Physiotherapist, Andrew Weller, confirmed the diagnosis. “Scans have shown a fracture in Matt’s left hand. After consulting with specialists, the decision was made for Matt to undergo surgery,” Weller stated.
Rowell is not the only Origin representative to have been impacted by the high-intensity clash. Melbourne’s Jacob Weitering, GWS Giants’ Sam Taylor, Brisbane Lions’ Callum Ah Chee, and Port Adelaide’s Mitch Georgiades are also nursing injuries picked up during the spirited contest held in Perth.
Despite concerns raised by some about the increased risk of injury in such exhibition matches, particularly following their long-awaited return, players involved have largely expressed satisfaction with the experience. Jacob Weitering, for instance, dismissed any regrets about participating. “Not at all, absolutely loved the week,” he said on Sunday. “I would certainly do it again if I got the opportunity.” His sentiment highlights the players’ desire to represent their peers and engage in a different format of the game.
Rowell’s delayed start to the season undoubtedly lengthens his odds of defending his Brownlow Medal title. The absence of their premier on-baller will also force coach Damien Hardwick to significantly reassess his midfield strategy. This comes at a challenging time, as the Suns have also seen the departure of key ball-winner Sam Flanders during the recent player movement window.
The responsibility to fill the void left by Rowell’s absence will likely fall upon a number of players. Incoming Norm Smith Medallist Christian Petracca, alongside a contingent of emerging academy products, are now in prime positions to step up and contribute. Their performances will be closely watched as the Suns navigate this challenging period.
Beyond the Origin-related injuries, the Gold Coast Suns have also provided updates on several fringe players who sustained injuries at training. Jake Rogers and Max Knobel are both facing periods out of action due to varying degrees of severity.
Rogers has been sidelined with a moderate hamstring strain, which will see him miss the Suns’ two pre-season fixtures against St Kilda and Brisbane. Ruckman Max Knobel has suffered a high-grade lateral ligament ankle injury. The club indicated that Knobel’s return would be a medium-term prospect, meaning he will be restricted to the sidelines for a considerable period.
In addition to these cases, several other players are listed with long-term returns. Elliott Himmelberg is dealing with a knee issue, Jai Murray is experiencing bone stress, and Beau Addinsall is recovering from a hamstring injury. The collective impact of these injuries underscores the challenges facing the Suns as they prepare for the demanding AFL season ahead.
