Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Billy Frampton has been handed a three match suspension by the AFL Match Review Officer following the tackle that left Melbourne forward Brody Mihocek with a fractured neck during the King’s Birthday clash. Meanwhile, Demons star Kysaiah Pickett has avoided suspension for a separate incident involving Collingwood defender Brayden Maynard and will be free to play against Essendon this weekend.
The disciplinary decisions were confirmed after Monday’s dramatic match between Melbourne and Collingwood at the MCG.
Frampton faces three game suspension
Frampton’s tackle on Mihocek in the second quarter has been assessed as careless conduct, severe impact and high contact.
The incident resulted in a significant injury to the Melbourne forward, who suffered a fractured neck and required immediate medical attention on the field before being transported to hospital.
The Collingwood defender received a three match ban, placing him on track to miss upcoming games against Port Adelaide, Richmond and Gold Coast.
The Magpies are expected to consider challenging the suspension at the AFL Tribunal.
If unsuccessful, Collingwood will be without one of its key defensive options during an important stretch of the season.
The incident cast a shadow over the contest and prompted concern from players on both sides.
Mihocek recovering after surgery
There was positive news regarding Mihocek following the frightening scenes at the MCG.
The forward underwent surgery to repair the neck fracture and club officials confirmed the procedure was successful.
Medical staff reported that Mihocek was already up and walking on Tuesday, providing encouragement after what initially appeared to be a potentially serious injury.
Play was halted for approximately 10 minutes while medical personnel attended to the injured player.
He was later transported to hospital by ambulance for further assessment and treatment.
The focus now remains on his recovery, with no timeline yet provided regarding a return to football.
Collingwood players support Frampton
The emotional impact of the incident was evident among Collingwood players following the match.
Defender Harry Perryman said teammates were concerned both for Mihocek and for Frampton, who was reportedly distressed by the outcome of the tackle.
Perryman explained that many players share a close friendship with Mihocek and were relieved to hear positive updates on his condition.
He also revealed teammates rallied around Frampton as he processed the seriousness of the incident.
The situation has highlighted the difficult balance between physical contests and player safety in modern AFL.
Pickett fined but cleared to play
Melbourne star Kysaiah Pickett escaped suspension despite scrutiny over a trip on Brayden Maynard during the match.
The incident resulted in Maynard landing awkwardly and dislocating his shoulder.
After review, the AFL determined a financial penalty was appropriate rather than a suspension.
Pickett received a $3000 fine and remains available for Melbourne’s clash against Essendon on Saturday.
The decision will come as a major relief for the Demons, who relied heavily on Pickett during their thrilling victory over Collingwood.
The dynamic forward was widely regarded as best on ground and played a central role in helping Melbourne secure the win.
With Pickett cleared and Frampton facing a lengthy absence, both clubs now turn their attention toward crucial upcoming matches while continuing to monitor the recovery of Mihocek and Maynard.