In a significant move ahead of the AFL Grand Final, Geelong Cats will reinstate veteran ruckman Rhys Stanley into their lineup to confront Brisbane Lions. This decision follows the concussion sustained by star defender Tom Stewart during their preliminary final victory over Hawthorn. Originally, Stanley was not selected for the preliminary final, with the Cats opting to use Mark Blicavs instead. However, due to Stewart’s injury, Stanley’s experience is deemed essential for the grand final, marking his return as he approaches 35 years of age, while the Cats chose not to bring in another defender like Jed Bews.
Brisbane has also made a notable decision, restoring team captain Lachie Neale, who has recovered from a calf strain sustained three weeks ago. He will replace midfielder Jarrod Berry, who dislocated his shoulder during Brisbane’s preliminary final win over Collingwood, marking his second shoulder injury of the season.
The Grand Final is set to kick off at 2:30 PM AEST on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, coinciding with a public holiday in Victoria. For international viewers, the match will be broadcast at varying times across the globe, including 5:30 AM in the UK and 9:30 PM Friday in the USA (west coast).
In terms of recent performances, this match-up represents the fourth encounter between these two teams this season. Geelong triumphed decisively in their previous qualifying final clash, while Brisbane secured two wins during the home-and-away season, one of which saw them beat Geelong at GMHBA Stadium by a substantial margin.
With regards to team odds, Geelong is favoured at $1.55, while Brisbane stands at $2.47. Key players to watch include Geelong’s Patrick Dangerfield and Bailey Smith, who are prominent candidates for the Norm Smith Medal, awarded to the best on ground.
As they prepare for the high-stakes contest, both clubs offer exciting entertainment during the pre-match activities, with performances from artists like Snoop Dogg and Tash Sultana.
In the event of a draw, extra time will be implemented, ensuring a decisive outcome. Each club will have specific interchange regulations and guidelines for player runners on the field during stoppages.
The grand final also includes presentations of prestigious awards such as the Jock McHale Medal and the Ron Barassi Medal, adding to the significance of this much-anticipated clash between Geelong and Brisbane.