Hawthorn's Newcombe Faces Suspension After Practice Match Incident

Bulldogs showcase offensive firepower as Demons' practice match cut short by lightning

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The AFL pre-season action continued this week with key insights emerging from matches featuring the Western Bulldogs, Hawthorn Hawks, and Melbourne Demons. The Bulldogs dominated Hawthorn with a 44-point victory, showcasing their potent attack. However, the Hawks struggled, and co-captain Jai Newcombe faces a potential suspension for a tackle that resulted in an opponent's head hitting the turf. Meanwhile, Melbourne's practice match against Richmond was cut short due to lightning, but not before the Demons displayed a 'smoother, slicker' game plan under new coach Nathan Jones.

Why it matters

These pre-season matches provide valuable insights into team strengths, player development, and emerging trends in the AFL. The Bulldogs' offensive firepower, Hawthorn's concerns, and the Demons' tactical evolution all have implications for the upcoming season. Additionally, the potential suspension of Newcombe could significantly impact Hawthorn's early-season form.

The details

The Western Bulldogs showcased their offensive prowess, with young gun Jordan Croft impressing with three first-half goals. However, the Bulldogs were without key player Sam Darcy, who is being assessed for soreness. Hawthorn's performance was underwhelming, with coach Adrian Hickmott noting their forwards 'didn't perform hard enough.' Adding to their concerns, co-captain Jai Newcombe faces a match review for a tackle on Ed Richards, which resulted in Richards' head hitting the turf. Meanwhile, Melbourne's practice match against Richmond was cut short due to lightning, but not before the Demons displayed a 'smoother, slicker' game plan under new coach Nathan Jones.

  • The Western Bulldogs dominated Hawthorn with a 44-point victory on February 25, 2026.
  • Jai Newcombe's tackle incident occurred during the Hawthorn vs. Western Bulldogs practice match on February 25, 2026.
  • Melbourne's practice match against Richmond was cut short due to lightning on February 26, 2026.

The players

Jai Newcombe

Co-captain of the Hawthorn Hawks who faces a potential suspension for a tackle incident during a practice match.

Jordan Croft

A young gun for the Western Bulldogs who impressed with three first-half goals in their practice match victory.

Sam Darcy

A key player for the Western Bulldogs who missed their practice match due to soreness and is being assessed for availability in the upcoming round.

Adrian Hickmott

The head coach of the Hawthorn Hawks, who acknowledged his team's poor forward-line performance in their practice match loss.

Nathan Jones

The new head coach of the Melbourne Demons, who oversaw their 'smoother, slicker' game plan during the practice match against Richmond.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.