Key Players Returning for St Kilda’s Upcoming Match
St Kilda star Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is a potential return for the Saints’ clash with Sydney on Sunday. The midfielder has been sidelined for the last four games due to a calf injury, during which the Saints have managed just one win out of three matches, including a disappointing loss to Hawthorn last Thursday night.
Mitch Owens and Liam Ryan are also in line to make a return from their respective calf injuries. Their potential comebacks could provide much-needed attacking strength, especially after St Kilda was kept goalless in the first half during Round 12.
Meanwhile, Melbourne veteran Jack Viney’s return to play is expected to be delayed due to a back complaint. Viney has not played any football in 2026 as he continues his rehabilitation from an Achilles injury sustained during pre-season. His return remains uncertain.
“Jack has been working incredibly hard with our high performance and medical team to return from his Achilles surgery that he had earlier this year,” said Griffith. “Unfortunately, while working through his rehab from that surgery, Jack has also had a lower back concern, which is something that he’s managed over the last couple of seasons. As a result of that lower back pain, he’s been progressing slower through his post-surgery rehab program.”
This follows a back flare-up during the summer, casting doubt on his involvement this season.
Other Players in Question
In addition to Viney, several other players are facing uncertainty ahead of Round 13. Melbourne teammates Latrelle Pickett (cork), Changkuoth (knee), Jiath, and Jake Lever (concussion) are all under evaluation for selection.
Richmond could see the return of up to four players following their AFL bye. Captain Toby Nankervis, second-year player Taj Hotton, Tom Brown, and Zane Peucker are all in the running to return.
However, important midfielder Jack Ross and backup ruck Samson Ryan will be unavailable due to concussion symptoms following the weekend. Additionally, suspended player Hugo Ralphsmith will also miss selection.
Hawthorn’s Potential Return
Hawthorn’s Tom Barrass is a chance to return in Round 13 after undergoing a fitness test later in the week. “Tom’s returned to full training. We have another main session on Wednesday this week as well, which he’ll participate in, and then we have team selection. But given that full week of training and if all’s going well, he would be available for this week,” said Hawthorn high performance manager Peter Burge.
Conor Nash is also under consideration after being a late withdrawal due to neck pain in Round 12.
Injuries Affecting Other Teams
Adelaide utility Isaac Cumming and GWS veteran Stephen Coniglio are set to sit out due to hamstring injuries. Coniglio’s return is expected in three weeks.
Sydney’s Justin McInerney is a test to play after an ankle sprain affected his game against Richmond.
