Carlton Rules Out Hollands for Fremantle Match After Mental Health Episode

Carlton Football Club has ruled out midfielder Elijah Hollands for its upcoming match against Fremantle after the 23-year-old suffered a mental health episode during Thursday night's game against Collingwood at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The Blues, who lost the match by 26 points, announced the decision Sunday as they continue an internal review of the circumstances surrounding Hollands' performance, in which he recorded just one possession despite playing 75 percent of the first three quarters.

Club chief executive Graham Wright emphasized that the primary focus remains on Hollands' wellbeing, stating the incident involved "unprecedented and complex circumstances." Wright confirmed Carlton staff were aware Hollands was struggling during the game, attributing it to his history of anxiety and panic attacks. "We're dealing with a mental health issue," Wright said at Ikon Park. "Our staff have been working alongside Elijah on this journey with him over a long period of time now, both on and off the field, providing every resource possible to ensure his welfare is paramount."

Hollands, who did not travel with the team to Perth for Saturday night's fixture, is receiving support...