The Gold Coast SUNS can confirm that versatile forward Kalinda Howarth will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2023 AFLW season.

Howarth was sent for scans after leaving the training field earlier this week with results confirming the 24-year-old has ruptured her ACL.

“Unfortunately scans confirmed that Kalinda has sustained a full rupture of her ACL which will sideline her for the remainder of the season,” GC SUNS AFLW Physiotherapist Jasmine Herlihy said.

“Kalinda will meet with a specialist in the near future before having an operation to repair the ligament.” 

GC SUNS Head of Women’s Football Fiona Sessarago says the club will continue to support Howarth throughout her recovery.

“It’s devastating news for Kalinda who has been an integral member of the Gold Coast SUNS since the team’s inception into the AFLW competition, and is a graduate of our SUNS Academy,” Sessarago said.

“What’s important is now ensuring Kalinda is provided all the support she needs throughout her rehabilitation and we look forward to seeing her return to the field stronger than ever.”