Collingwood’s star midfielder Nick Daicos was unexpectedly sidelined just before the team’s Easter Thursday match against Brisbane. Upon arriving at the Gabba, it was evident he had a heavily strapped calf, limiting his mobility during warm-ups. In response to his condition, the club made the last-minute decision to replace him with young midfielder Ed Allan.
This absence is a significant blow for Collingwood, which is already coping without veteran players Scott Pendlebury and Darcy Moore. Daicos, unable to participate, watched the match from a corporate box, as commentators noted the mounting challenges facing the team. SEN’s Gerard Whateley remarked on the daunting task ahead for the Pies, emphasising the impact of losing such a key player.
Fox Footy’s Ben Dixon also expressed concern about Daicos’ performance in warm-ups, noting he appeared to struggle significantly. It raised questions as to why the team brought him to the match if he wasn’t fit enough to play. According to Collingwood, Daicos is dealing with a corked calf injury.
The Brisbane Lions are facing their own obstacles, missing several key players including Hugh McCluggage, Harris Andrews, and Darcy Gardiner. In light of Daicos’ absence, former Adelaide star Josh Jenkins suggested that Jordan De Goey would need to step up and play a pivotal role in the midfield for Collingwood.