Scans today revealed key defender Darcy Gardiner has ruptured his posterior cruciate ligament on his right leg while playing in a practice match on Sunday morning.

The 23-year-old was injured while competing for a contest and is expected to miss six to eight weeks.

Speaking from the team’s 2019 pre-season camp in Hobart, General Manager of Football David Noble said the Club are hopeful he will recover by the start of the season.

“Darcy was injured in a clash during our practice match yesterday morning,” Noble said.

“Scans today confirmed he has torn his posterior cruciate ligament.

“Darcy will be able to remain active while in recovery and we’re hopeful he will have recovered in time for the start of the season.”