Lachie Neale faces AFL Grand Final ban after striking incident

Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale faces a potential ban from the AFL Grand Final after receiving a one-match suspension for striking Hawthorn forward Jack Ginnivan. The dual Brownlow medallist was penalized for intentional conduct with medium impact when he struck Ginnivan in the stomach during the first quarter of the preliminary final on Saturday.

Brisbane is expected to challenge the suspension, with Neale's unblemished record across 320 games potentially offering a pathway to overturn the ban. However, St Kilda legend Nick Riewoldt cautioned that allowing such an appeal could lead to the AFL's rules being perceived as manipulated.

"You can make the same argument that missing a grand final is compelling and exceptional circumstances," Riewoldt said. "So any time you have these subjective rules that the AFL does have, then there's an opportunity for those to be manipulated."

Riewoldt noted that other players suspended for similar incidents this season, such as Hawthorn's James Sicily and Dylan Moore, and Adelaide's Riley Thilthorpe, might feel unfairly treated if Neale's suspension is rescinded.

Geelong great Jimmy Bartel expressed doubt about Neale's chances, stating, "It doesn't look good." He acknowledged that Neale's extensive playing history might be a factor but emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the outcome.

Brisbane could also argue for the impact grading to be reduced from medium to low. The tribunal hearing is anticipated for Tuesday night. This potential ban follows a period of personal scrutiny for Neale, stemming from his separation from his wife, Jules, in December.

Last year, a calf injury threatened Neale's participation in the Grand Final, where he ultimately played as a substitute in Brisbane's premiership victory.