The season of Geelong big man Nathan Vardy has been cruelled by injury before it began, after he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in a training accident on Saturday.

Vardy had expressed an ambition to hold down a key forward post in 2014, but that aim was thwarted in a seemingly innocuous incident at training which continued a history of injuries for the Cats’ ruck division.

The 23-year-old, who was restricted by hip problems early last season but played the last eight games, had scans confirming he would need reconstructive surgery.

"Obviously this is tremendously disappointing for Nathan and the team," Balme said.

"As is often the case, the injury happened in an innocuous situation at training. Nathan and our medical team will consult with specialists ahead of surgery to repair his knee. At this stage we do not have a timetable on surgery.