Collingwood recruit Ash Brazill to miss opening of AFLW season with hamstring injury

COLLINGWOOD’S cross-code star Ash Brazill is tipped to make a huge impact in her first AFLW season, but the Pies will have to wait to see exactly what their new recruit can do.

Australian netballer Ash Brazill has joined AFLW. Picture: Jay Town

COLLINGWOOD’S cross-code star Ash Brazill is set to be sidelined until at least Round 3 of the AFLW season.

Largely tipped to make a huge impact in her first AFLW season, the Magpies’ netballer, 28, has hamstring tightness and will miss the season opener against Carlton on Friday night at Ikon Park and the historic first football game at the new Perth Stadium against Fremantle in Round 2.

NEW VENTURE: BRAZILL JOINS AFLW

It’s a major blow for Collingwood as the AFLW home and away season is just seven weeks with the top two team playing off in the grand final.

Ash Brazill in action in the Pies’ pre-season practice match with Melbourne. Picture: Ian Currie

“Ash put in all the work to be prepared for our round one clash with Carlton, but ultimately put the team first in admitting that her body wasn’t feeling 100 per cent,” Magpies women’s footy boss Matthew James said.

“While it’s disappointing she won’t be part of the first game, we need to make sure she’s fit beyond round one and the AFLW season.”