Get ready for an exciting preview of the upcoming season! The battle between the emerging Hawks and the mighty Cats is about to unfold, and you won't want to miss this!
Today marks the beginning of an intense series of club-versus-club simulations, with Hawthorn taking on Geelong at their state-of-the-art training facility in Dingley. This unofficial match-up is a thrilling glimpse into the future of AFL, and we're bringing you all the action live!
Catch the live broadcast on Foxtel and Kayo, and join our live blog below for real-time updates. After the match, Josh Gabelich will provide a comprehensive report and highlights on AFL.com.au and the AFL Live app. However, for this week's simulations, there will be no official stats page, so keep your eyes peeled for those crucial insights!
Both teams have named their extended squads, and there are some notable absences. Geelong will be missing almost half of their Grand Final lineup from last September, creating an opportunity for new recruits like James Worpel to shine. On the other side, Hawthorn has introduced Flynn Perez and Jack Riding, who are fighting for a spot on the Hawks' roster.
But here's where it gets interesting: all eyes will be on Connor Macdonald and Josh Weddle of the Hawks. These players are expected to take on more midfield responsibilities in 2026, and this simulation provides a perfect platform for them to showcase their skills.
Mark your calendars for Monday, February 16, at 1:45 pm AEDT. The Kennedy Community Centre will host this thrilling encounter, with four 30-minute quarters of non-stop AFL action. Don't forget to tune in to Foxtel and Kayo for the live broadcast!
And this is the part most people miss: the post-match analysis! Join us for a deep dive into the strategies, individual performances, and potential implications for the upcoming season.
So, who do you think will emerge victorious from this battle? Will the Hawks soar to new heights, or will the Cats reign supreme? Let us know your predictions and thoughts in the comments below! We'd love to hear your insights and spark some friendly debate.
