Carlton vs Hawthorn: Star forward Harry McKay withdraws late in blow for Carlton

Oliver Caffrey
AAP
Illness has caused the late withdrawal of Carlton forward Harry McKay for the clash with the Hawks. (Daniel Pockett/AAP PHOTOS)
Illness has caused the late withdrawal of Carlton forward Harry McKay for the clash with the Hawks. (Daniel Pockett/AAP PHOTOS) Credit: AAP

Star Carlton forward Harry McKay has withdrawn from the Blues’ clash with Hawthorn due to illness.

Already under the pump after blowing a 41-point lead against Richmond in round one, Carlton will be without one of their most important players for Thursday night’s match at the MCG.

Versatile tall Lewis Young has replaced McKay in the starting 22, with Cooper Lord to start as the Blues’ substitute.

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McKay’s absence comes as Carlton welcome back fellow star forward Charlie Curnow, who had been recovering from knee issues following an off-season ankle operation.

Veteran triple premiership forward Jack Gunston will start as Hawthorn’s sub as the Hawks aim to produce a 3-0 start for the first time in a season since 2014.

The Hawks took care of beaten grand finalists Sydney in opening round, before handling Essendon last Friday night at the MCG.

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