AFL Finals 2024 Carlton vs Brisbane in Brisbane

[Thryleon]

That's the tricky part isn't it.
We don't know if we have one week left... or four.

Do we throw everything into the first game....or do we take a conservative approach with some players, in the hope they'll be even more ready in the weeks ahead.

It' s a really difficult situation for selectors.

Injured players...do they need another week?
Players who have been carrying injuries, but still playing...will they hold up?
Players coming back for injuries...will it take more than a game or two to hit peak form?
Young players untried in the heat of finals battle...will they be found wanting under finals pressure?
Docherty...could be an inspiration...could have the opposite effect if he is injured again.

It's a scenario that could have our selectors open to heavy criticism...or praise, if they get it right.
The thing is that they're probably the group with the best knowledge of current player status to make those decisions.

Charlie doing nothing > any of our other forwards doing nothing.  Will demand a decent opponent at worst and get subbed out.  Just can't break him in the process.  If he needs an operation though it won't matter if you play him this and/or next week though.  That won't change until his operation.