Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 12, 2024 1:19 am GMT
In a significant shake-up following a challenging AFL season, Carlton Football Club has announced the delisting of five players, including former high-profile recruit Jack Martin, as part of a move aimed at reshaping the team’s roster. This decision comes on the heels of a disappointing campaign that saw the Blues fail to capitalize on their potential, largely due to injuries that plagued the squad.
Carlton’s Major List Changes
The Carlton Football Club’s recent decision to part ways with five players marks a pivotal moment as the team prepares for the 2024 season. Aside from Martin, the club has also delisted Caleb Marchbank, David Cuningham, Alex Mirkov, and Dom Akuei.
The players affected include:
- Jack Martin: The 29-year-old forward joined Carlton in 2020 on a lucrative five-year contract but struggled significantly with injuries, appearing in just 54 matches during his tenure.
- Caleb Marchbank: A former No. 6 draft pick in 2014, Marchbank faced ongoing fitness issues, resulting in only 56 games over eight seasons.
- David Cuningham: This half-forward was initially picked at No. 23 in the 2015 AFL Draft. Despite showing promise and appearing in a career-best 12 matches in 2023, injuries interrupted his play, leading to 58 games overall in nine seasons.
- Alex Mirkov and Dom Akuei: Both players, who were rookies with the club, did not manage to make their AFL debuts during their time at Carlton.
Club Management’s Response
Carlton’s list manager, Nick Austin, expressed gratitude for the contributions of the delisted players, highlighting their resilience and commitment to the club despite significant challenges. Austin remarked, “David and Caleb have persevered through adversity throughout their extended careers at Carlton. Their resolve… will hold them in good stead with whatever step they choose to take next.”
Austin also noted the positive energy brought by Mirkov and Akuei during their time at the club, recognizing their unique pathways into the AFL.
Charlie’s Shocking News
In another development for Carlton, key forward Charlie Curnow received unexpected news regarding his ankle. The 2023 Coleman medallist, who injured his ankle during a match against the Giants, will undergo surgery in the offseason. Curnow shared his surprise about the severity of his condition, stating, “I never thought you could have surgery from a few rolled ankles. That was a bit of a shock.”
While the surgery was not deemed essential, Curnow is optimistic it will address ongoing complications and enable him to return to top form for the 2025 season as Carlton aims for an elusive premiership.
Impact and Future Outlook
The roster changes and Curnow’s surgery illustrate a transformative phase for Carlton as they look to rejuvenate their squad. As the AFL moves toward its offseason, the following points stand out:
- Focus on Health: The delistings can be partly attributed to the club’s broader aim to enhance player health and performance, which was evidently a challenge last season.
- Potential New Additions: With Martin linked to a move to Fremantle, the club may look to refine its lineup further. There is speculation about who may fill the gaps left by the departed players, as fresh talent is essential for a successful campaign.
- Team Chemistry: Curnow expressed his sorrow at losing good friends within the team, highlighting the emotional toll of roster changes. Such changes can impact team dynamics, making it crucial for the club to foster new bonds as they build a competitive squad.
Looking Ahead
As Carlton navigates this period of transition, the focus will likely be on assembling a team that can contend in the coming seasons, learning from the lessons of the past year. The balance of experience and youth, coupled with a renewed commitment to fitness, could be integral to reviving the club’s fortunes.
With the delisting of these five players and Curnow’s imminent surgery, Carlton is poised for a season of reinvention. The team will need to adapt quickly, as the AFL landscape is ever-changing, and success hinges on both player health and strategic recruitment.
Carlton fans are excited about the changes happening with their team. They believe these updates will help the Blues become champions again in the future!
