Adelaide defender Max Michalanney will miss the opening round of the 2027 season after his suspension for striking was upheld by the AFL Tribunal.

Michalanney was charged with striking Brisbane Lions forward Charlie Cameron in the first quarter of Saturday night’s Semi Final at the Gabba.

The incident was graded intentional conduct, medium impact and body contact.

Michalanney and his legal counsel, Andrew Culshaw, argued that the action was a push rather than a strike and that the impact of any reportable offence should be graded as low instead of medium. 

“It is an unfortunate result as we believed we presented a strong argument to the Tribunal,” Crows EGM of Football Adam Kelly said.