Carlton’s embattled coach Michael Voss has dropped a selection bombshell ahead of his team’s clash with Adelaide on Thursday night, sensationally dumping reigning best-and-fairest winner George Hewett.
The midfield veteran led the Blues in disposals and tackles in the dramatic loss to North Melbourne on Good Friday, but has been dropped from the side that will take on the Crows at Adelaide Oval.
The 30-year-old is a victim of the team’s run of second-half fade-outs that have led to losses from winnable positions across this year and last season.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today
He is also part of a midfield brigade that (along with respected captain Patrick Cripps and high-priced star Sam Walsh) is often accused of lacking creativity, explosiveness and sameness.
Despite that, it is a shock move from Voss who many believe will not survive the season.
Hewett’s disposal efficiency last week was over 90 per cent, but he only managed a paltry 137 metres gained.
Since leaving the Swans ahead of the 2022 season, Hewett has been a reliable star for the Blues.
With key defender Jacob Weitering (concussion) also out and forward Will Hayward suspended, the Blues have brought in former GWS backman Nick Haynes and another former Giant in Zac Williams.
Big man Hudson O’Keeffe has also been included in the line-up, but speedster Adam Saad has once again been left out.
Veteran half-back Rory Laird is back for the Crows after a short injury layoff, and winger Mitch Hinge has also returned for his first game of the season.
Isaac Cumming is also back after missing last week due to illness and Luke Nankervis returns.
After he was included in the clash with Fremantle, ruck Reilly O’Brien again finds himself on the outer. Small forward Luke Pedlar is out due to concussion and Hugh Bond and Chayce Jones have been also been axed.
