‘It’s 200kg on top of him’: Weitering injury casts dark cloud over State Of Origin
Sydney Morning Herald
by Danny Russell, Roy WardFebruary 14, 2026
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A serious injury to Carlton star Jacob Weitering has cast a shadow over the historic return of State Of Origin football. During a collision in the opening term at Perth Stadium, Weitering was struck heavily by Western Australian forward Mitch Georgiades, landing on his back and sustaining a significant fall. The incident left him motionless on the field as fans watched in concern. Trainers attended to him immediately, placing him in a neck brace before he was stretchered off the ground and taken to医院 for scans on his shoulder and ribs.
The injury occurred during a high-stakes marking contest, with Georgiades' weight (estimated at 200kg) adding to the severity of the collision. While initial assessments were cautiously optimistic, the incident raised questions about player safety in high-intensity matches. Sports medic Peter Larkins expressed confidence that Weitering would recover, noting that chest and head impacts often result in less severe outcomes than feared. However, the moment starkly reminded fans of past injuries, such as Tony Hall’s career-altering ACL tear in 1989, which contributed to State Of Origin’s decline.
The Victorian coaching staff emphasized that the injury was a precautionary measure, with chairman Garry Lyon acknowledging the physical demands of the game. Chris Scott, Carlton's coach, downplayed the hype surrounding the incident, comparing it to the risks faced during regular training sessions. Despite the concerns, the match highlighted the unavoidable risks of elite sports, even in non-competitive exhibition games.
Weitering’s injury has sparked a broader conversation about the dangers of high-contact sports and whether players are adequately protected. As fans await updates on his condition, the incident serves as a reminder of the physical toll of State Of Origin football and its potential long-term consequences for athletes.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/14/2026