North Melbourne young gun George Wardlaw will be out of action for up to three months with a hamstring injury in a cruel blow ahead of the AFL season.
The 20-year-old hurt his right hamstring during a match simulation drill at training on Wednesday and was sent for scans, which revealed a high-grade injury.
The diagnosis continues a horror run of hamstring injuries for Wardlaw, who had multiple setbacks during his draft year and again since arriving at the Kangaroos as the No.4 pick in 2022.
North Melbourne expect Wardlaw to recover and be fit to play in "10 to 12 weeks".
"This is obviously disappointing for George as he has been very diligent with his physical conditioning since he's been at the club," Kangaroos football manager Todd Viney said.
"While there are a lot of variables at play with his recovery, George is an extremely diligent and professional athlete and we know he will be ticking every box in his rehabilitation to be back as soon as possible."
Wardlaw will miss at least the first month of the new season, with the Kangaroos due to take on the Western Bulldogs in their opener on March 15.
The young star showcased his potential across 18 games last season, averaging 19.1 disposals and 4.8 clearances.
On Wednesday, North Melbourne vice-captain Harry Sheezel said his fellew young star Wardlaw had put in a mountain of work over the summer program.
"I'm shattered for him and we'll wrap our arms around him," Sheezel said.
"He's worked so hard on his body the last few years to get it right so if this is a bit of a setback it will be hard for him.
"He was so fit and firing and ready to go and hopefully he will still be able to show that this year."
