The AFL world eagerly awaited the debut of prized recruit Bailey Smith for his new club Geelong on Monday, and the former Bulldog certainly delivered. In his first match since undergoing a knee reconstruction that ended his 2023 campaign, Smith showed no lingering effects as he burst out of the gates in the Cats’ practice match against Hawthorn.
Sporting a distinctive white headband, the 24-year-old midfielder was prolific early, finding plenty of the football as he rotated between the midfield and forward line. His trademark explosiveness and agility were on full display, a promising sign for Geelong fans after the club pulled off a stunning four-way trade to land Smith just before the deadline last year.
Strong Start Silences Injury Doubters
Any concerns about Smith’s recovery from his ruptured ACL were quickly put to rest as he dominated the first half of the hit-out. Geelong assistant coach James Rahilly praised Smith’s impressive return:
(It’s) exactly what we’ve seen all pre-season, he’s been really strong. We threw him around in a few positions and he was good.
– James Rahilly, Geelong Assistant Coach
Smith was carefully managed in the second half as the Cats cruised to a 20-point win, 15.16 (106) to 13.8 (86). But his blistering start sent a clear message that the explosive on-baller is ready to make an immediate impact for his new side in 2025.
Other Cats and Hawks Impress
While Smith stole the spotlight, several other players caught the eye for both sides:
- Will Day (Hawthorn) – prolific disposal-getter coming off late-season collarbone injury
- James Sicily (Hawthorn) – skipper back after off-season shoulder surgery; paired well with recruits Josh Battle
- Ollie Henry (Geelong) – young Cat booted 4 second-half goals in an exciting display
- Connor O’Sullivan (Geelong) – 2023 1st-round pick looked composed down back
Smith Set to Be Cats’ X-Factor
Geelong shocked the football world by landing Bailey Smith after his failed contract talks with the Western Bulldogs last year. The Cats paid a hefty price, giving up two first-round picks among other assets, but the upside of adding a player of Smith’s caliber to an already talent-rich midfield group is tantalizing.
With superstars like Patrick Dangerfield, Joel Selwood, and Brownlow Medalist Cameron Guthrie alongside him, Smith has the potential to be the dynamic X-factor that takes Geelong’s onball brigade to yet another level. His ability to impact games as both an inside bull and outside creator gives coach Chris Scott immense versatility.
Of course, the Cats will be keen to manage Smith’s workload early after his injury layoff. Expect him to be eased into full midfield minutes and spend ample time forward, where his marking prowess and goal sense make him a difficult match-up for defenders.
Mouthwatering Early-Season Clashes Await
AFL fans are already circling some enticing early-season fixtures involving Smith and his new Geelong teammates:
- Round 2 vs Brisbane Lions at the Gabba
- Round 5 vs Collingwood in a Grand Final rematch at the MCG
- Round 7 vs Western Bulldogs at GMHBA Stadium
That Bulldogs clash looms as a blockbuster with Smith facing his former side for the first time. Will he stamp his authority against his old teammates or will the Dogs make him rue his decision to depart Whitten Oval?
One thing is certain – if Smith’s first outing in the blue and white hoops is any indication, Cats fans are in for a treat watching their new superstar go to work this season. With a clean bill of health and a point to prove, Bailey Smith looms as one of the most watchable players in the AFL in 2025.
