Rising Lions star sad for injured teammate

It was only last week that Ashcroft expressed his excitement about Fletcher’s recent elevation to the Lions’ AFL side after impressive form in Brisbane’s VFL team following a pre-season that was compromised by a back injury.

The pair are not only teammates but housemates as well and represent the Lions’ long-term future.

But their on-field partnership is on hold, with Ashcroft – who had been superb in his debut AFL campaign – facing up to a year on the sidelines after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in Brisbane’s 11-point weekend win over Geelong.

In contrast, it was a game to remember for Fletcher, whose performance led to him joining Ashcroft as a contender to win this year’s Rising Star award.

“It’s always nice … but to be honest, I was more focused on just getting a win after a tough loss (to Melbourne the week before),” the 19-year-old wingman said.

“To beat the reigning premiers in front of a home crowd is always pretty special.”

However, it was a bittersweet day for Fletcher due to Ashcroft’s misfortune.

“He’s quite devastated and I’m devastated for him,” Fletcher said.

“We’ll just try and get around him as much as possible. We’ll act as long as we can around the house and try to take his mind off. It’s definitely going to help him.

“We’ve got good rehab staff here, so I’m sure he’ll be back better than ever and do some special things when he gets back.”

In the meantime, the third-placed Lions will push on without Ashcroft, with Fletcher – the son of club stalwart Adrian Fletcher – keen to continue his own good form in Saturday’s QClash against the Gold Coast Suns at Heritage Bank Stadium.

“I’m just focused on playing my role, holding my spot in the team and getting the win,” he said.

Fletcher’s form has also secured him a new contract extension, with the former Brisbane State High School student to wear Lions colours until at least the end of 2026.

“Dad’s played here, and to pull on that jumper that he’s pulled on is really special, and I’m looking forward to that next few years,” Fletcher said.

“This is where this is where I want to be. We have a great bunch of boys at the club, and I am really looking forward to seeing how far we can go.”

The Lions trained at Springfield on Tuesday, with attacking weapon Zac Bailey, who missed the win over the Cats due to a calf injury, restricted to light duties.

Originally published as Jaspa Fletcher earns new Lions deal as he sympathises with sidelined fellow young gun Will Ashcroft