Will Hayward looks dejected after Carlton's loss to North Melbourne in round four, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos

CARLTON will appeal the one-match ban handed to Will Hayward for his hit on North Melbourne midfielder George Wardlaw.

Hayward caught Wardlaw late with a swinging arm into the stomach in the third quarter of the Blues' loss to the Kangaroos on Good Friday.

The Match Review Officer cited Hayward for striking, grading it as intentional conduct, medium impact and body contact.

The Blues have decided to appeal the ban at the Tribunal.

If they fail, Hayward will miss Carlton's Gather Round clash against Adelaide on Thursday night.

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