BRISBANE has confirmed integral defender Kate Lutkins has ruptured her right ACL.
It's devastating news for the reigning premiers, especially when coupled with key forward Dakota Davidson's foot sprain, which will sideline her for 4-5 weeks.
The 33-year-old Lutkins – who was named best on ground in last year's Grand Final – injured her knee in the first quarter of Brisbane's loss to Adelaide.
It rounds out a horror trio of serious knee injuries out of round one, with AFLW best and fairest Brianna Davey and 2020 NAB AFLW Rising Star Izzy Huntington also ruled out for the season.
"It’s obviously difficult news for Kate and the club, and we’ll rally around her to provide her with our full support during her recovery," Brisbane head of women's football Breeanna Brock said.
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"Kate’s got a great support network of family and friends keeping her spirits high, and she’s already looking forward to the challenges that rehabilitation will bring.
"It’s an unfortunate injury for Dakota, but she’s in good spirits and we’re hoping she can tackle her rehab head on to return to play sooner rather than later."
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