Geelong star Bailey Smith cops fresh injury blow, ruled out of St Kilda clash

A week after starring on debut, the Geelong midfielder has suffered another blow in his injury-riddled AFL career to date.

Geelong star Bailey Smith has been ruled out the Cats’ Saturday night clash with St Kilda after suffering a calf injury.

The 24-year-old did not train on Friday after pulling up sore following his eye-popping Cats debut against Port Adelaide last week.

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And on Saturday the midfielder was officially rubbed out of Geelong’s clash against the Saints, with Smith also in doubt for next weekend’s match with Brisbane at the Gabba.

It comes after Smith enjoyed a stunning debut for the Cats last weekend, racking up 32 touches in a best-on-ground performance.

So the latest injury setback will be a tough pill to swallow for Smith.

The midfield livewire missed the entire 2024 season due to an ACL tear at his former club, the Western Bulldogs.

Bailey Smith (right) has been ruled out of Saturday night’s match with a calf injury. Picture: Michael Klein

And he will be hoping the calf won’t derail his 2025 season.

It is understood the Cats won’t rush him back but are hopeful he will be fit to face the Lions.

His spot in the team is expected to be taken by either Ted Clohesy or veteran playmaker Mitch Duncan.

Meanwhile, the St Kilda side set to face the Cats features four changes in response to its 63-point hiding against Adelaide last week.

The Saints have had the wood over Geelong at Marvel Stadium in recent times, winning the last three meetings, but the Cats come into the contest as big favourites.

The match will get underway at 7.35pm AEDT.

Originally published as Geelong star Bailey Smith cops fresh injury blow, ruled out of St Kilda clash