North Melbourne’s midfielder Mia King, who recently returned to full fitness, has not been recalled for the upcoming AFLW grand final. Coach Darren Crocker decided against making risky changes to the lineup that successfully secured the team’s place in the final.
Crocker explained that the decision was made to preserve consistency and maintain the structure that had worked well through the finals series.
"It’s always a tough call when players return from injury, but we had to think about team balance and what’s been working for us," Crocker said.
King, known for her contested play and midfield strength, was sidelined earlier in the season due to injury. Although declared fit, selectors chose to stick with the group that delivered a strong performance in the preliminary final.
The Kangaroos will now focus on their first AFLW grand final appearance, confident in the chemistry and resilience of their current squad.
Author's summary: North Melbourne kept a stable lineup for the AFLW grand final, choosing not to risk changes despite Mia King’s fitness return.