Gold Coast's Ava Usher banned, ineligible for Rising Star award

Gold Coast player Ava Usher has received a one-game suspension following a high bump against Richmond during their recent AFLW match. The incident occurred as the final siren sounded, resulting in Usher being ruled out of contention for the AFLW Telstra Rising Star award due to the eligibility criteria for the award. Under the rules, any player suspended during the season cannot win the award, which includes a $20,000 prize. The Suns may appeal the suspension to keep Usher eligible and available for their upcoming match against Greater Western Sydney, where they aim to secure a top-four spot. In addition, Adelaide's Eloise Jones has also been suspended for one game for rough conduct in another match.

• 7:00 AMAFL — Match review: Rising Star favourite banned, ineligible for top award