Arabic version: كارلتون تحقق في حالة إليجاه هولاندز الصحية النفسية

Carlton Football Club has ruled Elijah Hollands out of their upcoming match against Fremantle following a serious mental health episode during a game against Collingwood. The club is currently investigating the circumstances that led to Hollands’ concerning performance at the MCG on Thursday night.

Hollands has received support from his father, Ben, and will not travel for the Saturday night match. Carlton’s chief executive, Graham Wright, stated that officials were aware Hollands was ‘struggling in the game,’ but he could not confirm when staff realized the extent of his condition. ‘Our guys were dealing with him in the game and obviously knew that he was having some problems,’ Wright said.

The 23-year-old player has a history of mental health challenges, having taken personal leave from the club last year due to issues related to mental health and alcohol. Wright has ruled out alcohol or illicit substances as factors affecting Hollands during the game. The club is committed to ensuring Hollands receives the necessary medical and wellbeing support.

The AFL has requested a review from Carlton regarding the circumstances surrounding Hollands’ fitness to play during the match. The league emphasized that player health and wellbeing is a top priority. Wright acknowledged the need for a thorough investigation into the events leading up to the game, stating, ‘We’re in the process of going through all the circumstances leading up to the game, two or three weeks prior to the game.’ According to ABC News, the club is taking the situation very seriously as they aim to provide the best care for Hollands.

Hollands, who has played all six games this season, averaged 18.4 possessions before his troubling night against the Magpies. Carlton’s coach, Michael Voss, described Hollands as ‘pretty shattered’ following the game, noting that he felt he had let the team down.