INTERVIEW: Sam Baulderstone - 21 August 2026
Summary
Crows ruck coach Sam Ballstone discusses the team's lineup changes, including managing Callum Cheese and using Phil Thorsby as the second ruck. He highlights Isaac Rankin’s strong form and the importance of tackling against Fremantle, while noting the pressure on players to secure finals spots. The segment also covers Tex Walker’s final home-and-away game, with the club planning a tribute video to celebrate his 19-season career.
Topics discussed
Team selection and Calamar Cheese management
Riley Philthorpe as second ruck and game model
Balancing Philthorpe's forward and ruck minutes
Lachie McAndrew's performance and Jackson's form
Tackling stats and Fremantle's breaking ability
Isaac Rankin's form and off-ball contributions
Squad depth and pressure on starting players
Role changes for Nankervis, Cummings, and Curtin
Wing rotation and Jake Saligo's position
Defining a win and preparing for finals habits
Celebrating Tex Walker's final home-and-away game
Closing remarks and confidence building
Post-interview analysis of team lineup changes
Critique of Dan Curtin's recent role and strategy
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