The 2025 Brownlow medallist, Matt Rowell, will miss the start of the season due to a broken finger. The injury occurred during the AFL Origin game in Perth, and Rowell will undergo surgery on his left hand later this week. This setback comes after a stellar season for the 24-year-old, who earned All-Australian selection and a best and fairest award. Rowell's absence will be felt, especially in the opening round against Geelong, where he was expected to play a crucial role. Meanwhile, other players are also dealing with injuries, adding to the challenges faced by teams at the beginning of the season. The AFL season is off to a turbulent start, with injuries affecting key players and teams alike. Stay tuned for updates on Rowell's recovery and the overall health of the players as the season progresses.