In a bold move that could reshape their 2026 campaign, St Kilda’s decision to retain Rowan Marshall may prove pivotal following Max King’s recent knee surgery. King, a former top draft pick, is expected to return to training by January, but his ongoing knee issues have left the Saints in a precarious position.
King, who has been sidelined since Round 16 of the 2024 season, missed all of last year due to persistent knee problems. The uncertainty surrounding his fitness might explain why St Kilda was resolute in keeping Marshall, despite significant interest from other clubs.
Marshall’s Role in St Kilda’s Strategy
The Moorabbin-based club was unwavering in their commitment to Marshall, viewing him as a crucial component alongside newly acquired free agent Tom De Koning. Both Geelong and West Coast made aggressive offers for Marshall, with Geelong proposing Pick 19 and a future second-round selection. However, St Kilda rejected these advances, opting to hold onto their versatile ruckman.
This decision could be a masterstroke for the Saints as they navigate the 2026 season. Under coach Ross Lyon, the forward line has always been a subject of fascination, irrespective of King’s availability. The presence of players like Jack Higgins, Mitch Owens, and Cooper Sharman offers depth, but Marshall’s ability to fill the void as a key forward target is invaluable.
Forward Line Dynamics
Jack Higgins led the Saints’ goal-scoring efforts in 2025 with 46 goals, while Sharman contributed 34. Owens and Mason Wood added 25 and 22 goals, respectively. Despite these contributions, the team lacked a dominant presence in the forward half—an area where Marshall could excel.
Anthony Caminiti might also transition forward, particularly after the acquisition of Jack Silvagni, while Liam Ryan’s inclusion will enhance their small forward options. Marshall’s experience as a key target during the Paddy Ryder era, where he frequently attended center bounces, underscores his potential impact in this role.
Adapting to New Ruck Rules
The AFL’s revised ruck rules could further benefit players like De Koning, who can leverage his impressive leap to gain an advantage during ball-ups. Meanwhile, Marshall’s strength lies in his ability to cover ground and follow up contests, reminiscent of the Ryder-Marshall partnership from five years ago.
According to AFL analyst John Smith, “Marshall’s retention is a strategic move by St Kilda. His versatility and experience in the forward line could be crucial, especially given the uncertainties surrounding King’s fitness.”
Implications for the 2026 Season
The Saints’ decision to keep Marshall could be a defining factor as they aim to improve their standings in the upcoming season. With King’s return timeline uncertain, Marshall’s role becomes even more critical. His ability to adapt to various positions on the field provides Lyon with tactical flexibility.
Looking ahead, St Kilda’s focus will likely be on maximizing the synergy between Marshall and De Koning, while also integrating new recruits like Silvagni and Ryan into their game plan. The club’s steadfast approach in retaining key players reflects a broader strategy to build a resilient and adaptable team.
As the 2026 season approaches, the Saints’ management decisions will be closely scrutinized. The success of their strategy hinges on the health of their players and the effectiveness of their on-field combinations. If Marshall can fill the gap left by King and contribute significantly, St Kilda’s gamble could indeed turn out to be a stroke of genius.
