Captain Buddy out of All Stars clash

HAWTHORN star Lance Franklin has withdrawn from the Indigenous All Stars team after developing fluid on top of his calf.

Franklin, 26, had scans on Monday after a Baker's cyst behind his knee burst and caused the fluid to build up.

The Hawks believe the injury is minor but he has withdrawn from Friday night's clash with Richmond at Traeger Park in Alice Springs as a precaution.

Franklin suffered tightness as a result of the injury and will now allow the site the settle.

Essendon veteran Nathan Lovett-Murray will replace Franklin as captain of the team.

Franklin will still attend the All Stars' camp in Alice Springs this week and will assist the team in a coaching capacity.

The Hawthorn superstar attended a press conference on Monday to talk about Friday night's game, along with Richmond captain Trent Cotchin, but the interest in the Hawks' spearhead centered around his decision to delay contract talks until the season's end.

He said he had "no intentions" of leaving Hawthorn but was aware that his decision left him open to a season full of speculation regarding his future.

The squad of 40 indigenous players started their three-day camp in Alice Springs on Tuesday, which will involve a leadership program and community visits.

The team that faces Richmond on Friday night will be coached by former Sydney Swan Michael O'Loughlin, former Fremantle defender Roger Hayden and current players Adam Goodes and Shaun Burgoyne.

Franklin's Hawthorn teammate Cyril Rioli will not take part in the exhibition match because of a corked quad.

Jennifer Phelan is a reporter for AFL Media. Follow her on Twitter @AFL_JenPhelan.