Scans have confirmed ACL tears for Melbourne duo Jake Melksham and Luke Dunstan.
Melksham suffered the injury in Sunday’s AFL win over Sydney at the SCG while Dunstan was struck down in Casey’s Wildcard round VFL win over North Melbourne.
Melbourne GM of AFL performance Alan Richardson confirmed the news to the club’s website.
“Unfortunately, scans confirmed the worst for Jake and Luke this afternoon,” Richardson said.
“It is incredibly disappointing news for both players, particularly on the eve of an AFL and VFL Finals Series. It really is a cruel part of our game.
“Jake and Luke have played very important roles for us in recent weeks and have done so with class and character. It is devastating to lose them at this point, but I have no doubt they will apply the same attitude and commitment to their respective rehabs.
“Both players mean a lot to our football club, and we will be doing everything we can to support them through this difficult time.”
Melksham, 31, and Dunstan, 28, are both currently without contracts for 2024.
The Demons next face the Magpies in a Qualifying Final on Thursday, September 7.