NORTH MELBOURNE could be without in-form veteran Jarrad Waite for its blockbuster clash with Geelong next Saturday.

Waite, who has kicked 22 goals this year, including seven in his past two outings, was a late withdrawal from the Kangaroos team that took on Brisbane at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

The 35-year-old experienced tightness in a calf, paving the way for Tom Murphy to make his debut.

"I just ran out and did a couple of run-throughs and the calf was feeling pretty tight,” Waite told Fox Sports.

"I knew we had a bit of time to get someone else on… I've had a few calf issues over my time so I didn’t want to risk.

"I pulled the pin and then little Tommy Murphy got his opportunity to play his first game.”

Asked if he would be fit to take on the Cats at GMHBA Stadium in round 12, Waite said: "Yeah, see how it goes."

Waite's teammate Jed Anderson left the ground before quarter-time after reportedly injuring a hamstring.

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