George Wardlaw, in top form for North Melbourne, will sit out the team’s next two matches due to concussion from a head injury during training.
The incident took place during a Thursday training session before North Melbourne’s Saturday afternoon game at Marvel Stadium against the Western Bulldogs.
Wardlaw initially sought medical attention for his shoulder following the incident but later disclosed feeling a head knock during the clash and underwent testing as per league protocols.
George Wardlaw will be sidelined for two weeks after sustaining a concussion at training. https://t.co/yeZvVWsAko
— AFL (@AFL) June 27, 2024
“Under the League’s protocols, George will miss at least the next two matches,” said Todd Viney, North Melbourne’s football manager. “Initially, he reported shoulder soreness to our medical team and later mentioned experiencing a head knock during the same incident. Following this information, our doctor conducted concussion testing, which led to his ruling out.”
Viney added, “It’s disappointing for George and the team, but our top priority is always the players’ health.”
This setback is particularly tough for Wardlaw, who has been in outstanding form recently, with three consecutive strong performances featuring over 20 disposals and six clearances per game.
George Wardlaw will be sidelined for two weeks after sustaining a concussion at training. https://t.co/yeZvVWsAko
— AFL (@AFL) June 27, 2024
North Melbourne, currently experiencing their best form since the early stages of the 2023 season, secured a victory against the Eagles three weeks ago but narrowly lost to Collingwood and Melbourne in two tightly contested matches.
As a result of his absence, North will face the Bulldog clash without their young star and will also miss him in what could be a promising match against Gold Coast at home in Round 17.