Gary Rohan’s immediate playing future clouded after fractured skull

A premiership Cat will miss Geelong’s preliminary final after undergoing surgery for a fractured skull.

Gary Rohan warms up before the final against Southport Sharks. Picture: Rob Lawson/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

UPDATE

Geelong premiership forward Gary Rohan has been ruled out of the Cats’ preliminary final next weekend after undergoing surgery on Monday for a fractured skull.

In a statement on Monday, Geelong assistant general manager Brett Johnson confirmed Rohan would miss next weekend’s game, either against Brisbane or GWS Giants.

“Gary will have surgery today and will be unavailable for our AFL Preliminary Final, we will provide the support required to Gary and his family as he recovers,” Johnson said.

Rohan fractured his skull due to an “errant elbow” in the first quarter at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday, missing the reaminder of the game against Southport Sharks, the club said.

He was sent to hospital for a further assessment after the game for a suspected fracture and progressive concussion symptoms.

EARLIER

Geelong premiership forward Gary Rohan’s immediate playing future is in doubt after requiring surgery for a fractured skull.

The 33-year-old, who has played 12 games this season at the highest level, announced on social media on Sunday that he was “doing well and was in the best hands”.

Rohan was taken out of Geelong’s VFL semi-final against Southport Sharks at GMHBA Stadium, after receiving glancing blow to the head in the first quarter, without recording a stat.

“Now just waiting surgery, thank you for all the messages,” Rohan said on social media on Sunday.

Rohan is struck in the face during the VFL semi-final against Southport Sharks at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday. Picture: AAP Image/Julian Smith.

Rohan reportedly sustained concussion during the game.

The Cats were bundled out of the finals in straight sets after the 29-point loss at GMHBA Stadium, robbing the likes of Tom Hawkins, Sam De Koning and Cam Guthrie or further match practice ahead of the Cats’ preliminary final later this month.

Rohan has kicked nine goals for the Cats in the AFL this year.

The club has been contacted for comment.

Originally published as Gary Rohan’s immediate playing future clouded after fractured skull