Carlton star Jacob Weitering has received some good news, with the Blues labelling their injured vice-captain as a “good chance” to feature in opening round.
One of several players injured in the State of Origin clash, Victoria key defender Weitering was crunched in the first quarter in a marking contest with WA forward Mitch Georgiades.
The 204-game veteran was stretchered off and taken to hospital for scans, but was cleared of any neck, spinal or major internal injuries.
Weitering flew back to Melbourne after being released from hospital on Sunday morning.
Further assessments at the club confirmed the star defender had sustained a rib fracture.
But Carlton are confident Weitering will prove fit for the club's opening round meeting with Sydney on March 5.
"The defender has been cleared of any other injury. As a result, he remains a good chance to be available to play in Opening Round," a club statement said.
"The 28-year-old will now focus on making a full recovery, with the Club to confirm his availability to play against Sydney during the week of opening round."
Weitering had expressed no regrets about participating in Origin in the aftermath of WA's loss.
"Not at all, absolutely loved the week," he said on Sunday.
"The result went our way as well. I kept up with the scores in hospital.
"I would certainly do it again if I got the opportunity."
Port forward Georgiades, along with Adelaide recruit Callum Ah Chee and GWS defender Sam Taylor were unable to finish the game due to 'hamstring awareness'.
Gold Coast's Brownlow medallist Matt Rowell also injured a finger.
