Injury Updates for Carlton and Hawthorn Ahead of Finals

Carlton's Will Hayward and Nick Haynes are undergoing evaluations for their participation in the Elimination Final against Geelong. Both players sustained ankle injuries during a recent match against the Western Bulldogs and will be assessed during the club's main training session on Wednesday.

Hayward was considered for the Wildcard Final against Melbourne but did not meet the medical team's criteria for return. Haynes, who played a significant role in Carlton's victory, was seen struggling with his injury during the match, needing to reassure medical staff about his condition multiple times.

In other injury news, Brisbane's Hugh McCluggage is set to return for the Qualifying Final against Sydney after dealing with calf issues. Meanwhile, Hawthorn has added ruck Ned Reeves and defender Jack Scrimshaw to its injury list, with Reeves suffering a throat injury and Scrimshaw dealing with a knee issue. Both players' return timelines remain uncertain.