A shocking double blow has rocked the AFL community, with yet another premiership player stepping away from the game. James Harmes, a key figure in the Western Bulldogs' success, has taken personal leave, leaving fans and teammates alike wondering about his future.
The Personal Battle:
Harmes, a 30-year-old veteran, has been dealing with a delicate personal matter, causing him to miss pre-season training since the Christmas break. This has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming 2026 season, with experts suggesting he might not feature early on.
But here's where it gets controversial...
The Contract Conundrum:
With his three-year contract expiring at the end of the season, Harmes' absence couldn't have come at a worse time. The Bulldogs, eager to improve on their 2025 campaign, are left with a tough decision: do they wait for his return or move on and focus on the future?
And this is the part most people miss...
The Impact on the Team:
Harmes' departure follows a trend, with other AFL stars like Bobby Hill and Tyson Stengle also taking personal leave. This leaves a void in their respective teams, especially for the Bulldogs, who open their season against the reigning champions, Brisbane, in the Opening Round.
In other news, the Giants' star recruit, Clayton Oliver, faces a setback of his own. After an ill-timed calf issue, Oliver is expected to be sidelined for a few weeks, adding to the doubts surrounding his availability for the upcoming AFL Origin match.
Meanwhile, the North Melbourne Kangaroos are dealing with their own injury concerns. Veteran defender Aidan Corr, who has a history of calf injuries, has suffered a moderate-grade strain, keeping him out for the next four to six weeks.
The AFL community is abuzz with these developments, leaving fans and analysts alike to speculate on the impact these injuries and personal leaves will have on the upcoming season.
What do you think? Will these setbacks affect the teams' performances? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
