UPDATE: Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale is making headlines as he returns to the field for the AFL Grand Final against the Geelong Cats on October 7, 2025. Just 22 days after suffering a calf injury, Neale is determined to prove he made the right call in declaring himself fit for this crucial match.
Initially, scans indicated that Neale would be sidelined for up to six weeks, and he himself believed his season was over. “I look like a bit of a goose,” Neale quipped, referencing his earlier Instagram post where he lamented his injury. “It’s been a little bit of a roller-coaster, emotionally.” The dual Brownlow Medal winner now has a chance to shine on the grandest stage.
During the Lions’ captain’s run at the MCG on Friday, Neale participated in handball drills but did not push his calf, opting to play it safe before the big game. His fitness was confirmed during rigorous training sessions earlier in the week.
Neale replaces injured teammate Jarrod Berry, who made the selfless decision to withdraw from the premiership decider after re-injuring his shoulder. “He’s a great team man, Bez,” said Lions co-captain Harris Andrews. “It’s inspiring, but it’s also energizing because he wants to put the team ahead of himself.”
As the game approaches, both Neale and Lions coach Chris Fagan have left the possibility open for Neale to serve as a substitute if necessary, recalling his role as a sub during his first grand final in 2013.
Neale expressed pride in his teammates, who have fought through the finals, saying, “I’m a bit sick of my story. We have 22 other pretty good stories that hopefully get a run over the next couple of days.” This emotional connection to his teammates adds a layer of human interest to the high-stakes match.
As anticipation builds ahead of the grand final, fans are eager to see Neale’s performance and the impact it will have on the Lions’ quest for victory. All eyes will be on the MCG this Saturday as the Lions prepare to face the Cats in what promises to be an unforgettable showdown.
Stay tuned for live updates as this story develops and the AFL Grand Final unfolds. Will Neale’s return make the difference? Only time will tell.
