Carlton will face Hawthorn in a pivotal Australian Football League (AFL) match on March 20, 2025, with a key change to their lineup. The Blues have announced that Charlie Curnow, a dual Coleman Medallist, is set to return after an injury layoff since August 2024. His inclusion comes at a crucial time as Carlton seeks to improve its season performance.
Curnow’s return marks a significant moment for the Blues, as he replaces Francis Evans in the 23-man squad. This will be the first time Curnow will line up alongside fellow forwards Harry McKay and Brodie Kemp, a combination that has not been seen since Kemp switched positions late last year. Curnow’s reintegration into the team adds both depth and experience to Carlton’s forward line.
Blake Acres, another notable player, is also set to reach a personal milestone as he plays his 50th game in Navy Blue since joining the club at the beginning of the 2023 season. Acres has been a staple in the lineup, missing only two matches during his tenure.
Head Coach Michael Voss underscored the importance of teamwork in their quest for improvement. "We’re not in the conversation around one person is going to make a difference. What makes us different is staying connected as an 18-man team; we’ve spoken a lot about squad mentality. That’s what gets the job done," Voss explained. His philosophy emphasizes the collective strength of the team over individual contributions alone.
Voss also shared insights into Curnow’s readiness for the match, stating, "It does help that he’s got an extra week under his belt. He possibly could have last week, but I think it would’ve been pulling the trigger too early. He’s well and truly ready. Speaking to him yesterday, he’s really clear and excited about getting back out there." This indicates that Curnow is not just physically prepared but also mentally sharp, looking forward to making an impact in his comeback game.
In addition to Curnow’s return, Sam Docherty has been named in the 18 after starting the last match as a substitute, signaling a bolster in their midfield and defensive options. Voss has included players like Nick Haynes, Cooper Lord, Jesse Motlop, Sam Walsh, and Zac Williams on the interchange bench, underscoring the team’s strategic depth.
As Carlton prepares to face Hawthorn, there is a palpable sense of anticipation. The match not only signifies a chance for redemption for the Blues but also an opportunity to solidify their team spirit as they strive to improve their standing in the league.
Hawthorn, on the other hand, has made changes to their lineup as well, bringing in Changkuoth Jiath and Jack Gunston while omitting Sam Frost and facing a suspension for Jack Scrimshaw. This dynamic adds to the competitive atmosphere as both teams aim for supremacy.
The upcoming game is set to be crucial for both teams, filled with tension and the potential for exciting plays as Carlton looks to meld their newly adjusted squad and Hawthorn aims to leverage their strategic changes for a win. With the return of Curnow and Akers’ milestone game, there are significant narratives to watch as the teams take the field in an effort to perform at their best.
