Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Elijah Hewett West Coast future is under fresh scrutiny after the out-of-contract midfielder was dropped for Friday night’s Australian Football League clash with Adelaide Football Club at Optus Stadium.

Hewett and Ryan Maric were omitted as part of three West Coast Eagles changes, while Cooper Duff-Tytler will miss with a calf injury. Tim Kelly and Jack Williams return, and mid-season draftee Oliver Francou will make his AFL debut.

For more Australian Football League injury news, read Darcy Moore Hamstring Injury Ends Collingwood Captain’s Season, while official fixtures and team updates are available through the Australian Football League website.

Hewett Sent Back To WAFL

Hewett had played only two games since returning from a West Australian Football League stint earlier this season. He gathered 16 disposals against North Melbourne Football Club in round 14, then had 11 touches in last week’s 53-point loss to Carlton Football Club.

The 22-year-old was not named as an emergency, which points to another Swan Districts appearance. His contract situation adds another layer, with rival interest from interstate clubs and a long-term West Coast offer reportedly on the table.

McQualter Looks For Midfield Balance

West Coast’s midfield will look different against Adelaide, with No.1 draftee Willem Duursma also expected to spend time on-ball after playing as a third forward against Carlton.

“That is definitely part of what we’re going through and how we’re trying to resource our players,” coach Andrew McQualter said.

“The more continuity we can get in any line or any area of the ground is good for us.

“It’s definitely a discussion for us and trying to get the mix right plus just play games together is the focus for us.”

Maric Also Omitted

Maric has also been dropped for the second time this year, only weeks after signing a two-year contract extension through to the end of 2028. The 21-year-old has averaged 18 disposals this season but has faced questions over disposal efficiency and impact.

Kelly’s return should help a midfield that relied heavily on Harley Reid last week. Williams could be used in defence or as a forward-ruck, with Archer Reid injured and Matt Flynn still overlooked.

Adelaide have made one change after their Showdown loss to Port Adelaide Football Club. Isaac Cumming is out, with 200cm forward-ruck Toby Murray returning.