AFL Origin: Patrick Cripps and Marcus Bontempelli set to captain WA and Victoria respectively

Western Australia will be lead by a dual Brownlow Medallist for next month’s highly-anticipated AFL Origin clash in Perth, with Carlton skipper Patrick Cripps announced as captain.

Western Bulldogs superstar Marcus Bontempelli will lead a star-studded Victorian side for the sold-out clash at Optus Stadium on February 14.

The pair are no strangers to their respective soles, with Cripps leading the Blues since 2019 as co-captain before assuming the sole captaincy in 2022 and Bontempelli leading the Dogs since 2020.

Cripps, who claimed the AFL’s highest individual honour in 2022 and 2024, said he was honoured to captain his state.

“To be named captain of Western Australia is incredibly special,” the 30-year-old said.

“Representing the state means a lot to me and I can’t wait to lead the team out at Optus Stadium in front of our home crowd and hopefully make them proud.”

Bontempelli, a seven-time All-Australian, echoed Cripps’ sentiment following his appointment.

“Pulling on the ‘Big V’ has always been a huge honour and to be give the opportunity to captain Victoria is something I’ll cherish,” Bontempelli, 30, said.

“There’s a deep history and pride that comes with representing your state and I’m looking forward to leading some of Victoria’s best footballers on February 14.”

Bontempelli is one of four current AFL captains named to represent Victoria with Noah Anderson (Gold Coast), Toby Greene (Greater Western Sydney), Max Gawn (Melbourne), while Cripps is the sole skipper named in WA’s side so far.

West Coast great Dean Cox will coach WA up against Geelong two-time premiership coach Chris Scott.

The AFL Origin match will be broadcast live and free on Seven and 7Plus, with tickets for the clash already sold out.