Magpie Star Unwavering Amidst Perth Speculation
Young Roo Seeks Role Clarity at Arden Street
Collingwood’s premiership dynamo Bobby Hill is firmly committed to the club, quashing persistent rumours of a return to his home state of Western Australia. Meanwhile, North Melbourne’s prized draft pick Zane Duursma is actively seeking to understand his position under coach Alastair Clarkson.
Hill’s Future Firmly in Black and White
Despite recently extending his contract with the Magpies until the conclusion of the 2030 season, speculation suggested **Bobby Hill**, 25, might be headed back to Perth. However, these whispers have been definitively silenced.
“He’s not going anywhere. The whispering campaign had it that because his partner for the short-time period right now had moved back to Perth, there were a lot of people prepared to tell you Bobby might be heading back there as well,”
—Jon Ralph, Fox Footy Reporter
Jon Ralph of Fox Footy confirmed Hill’s steadfast commitment. “I’ve checked in with his camp, with Collingwood — he’s going nowhere. The ink is barely dry on that new long-term,”
Ralph stated on Tuesday night’s Midweek Tackle. He further elaborated that the club views the rumours as a temporary disturbance stemming from challenging family circumstances, with Hill remaining content in Victoria.
Hill has been sidelined for the past month, with potential to return to VFL action this weekend following an inconsistent recent training period. Since his debut in 2019, the livewire forward has accumulated 101 games and kicked 116 goals.
Duursma Pursues Clarity at North Melbourne
Second-year Kangaroo **Zane Duursma**, the fourth overall selection in the 2023 AFL Draft, has reportedly sought greater clarity regarding his role within the senior team. Having featured in just seven senior matches this year, **Duursma** has spent significant time with the club’s reserves, fuelling speculation about a potential early departure.
Jon Ralph addressed Duursma’s situation on Midweek Tackle, explaining the club’s firm stance that he is a required player. “He’s been having a lot of conversations with Alastair Clarkson about his role, and he’s really clear on what it will be. The club is telling him ‘you’re not going anywhere’,”
Ralph said.
Duursma has recently been playing in defence in the VFL, a move intended to help him regain form and confidence. Despite any personal frustrations, his future at North Melbourne appears secure. Every scout who assessed Duursma during his draft year believed he possessed star quality and continues to hold that view. In 2023, he was selected two picks after teammate Colby McKercher, who recently committed to the club until 2028.
The AFL’s player movement period for 2025 saw over 100 players change clubs, highlighting the dynamic nature of list management at all AFL teams (AFL.com.au, 2023).
