Two Carlton players hospitalised in Melbourne in separate incidents

Two Carlton Football Club players have been hospitalised following separate incidents in Melbourne, the club has confirmed.

Players Lachie Cowan and Will Hayward were both admitted to hospital on Sunday morning.

Cowan was taken to hospital via ambulance after an incident believed to have taken place at a house party in South Yarra, which 9News reports both players attended.

Paramedics were called to the home at 5.15am on Sunday.

One man in his 20s was taken to hospital with upper body injuries and is in a stable condition, Ambulance Victoria said.

“Cowan received medical treatment and underwent observation, before being discharged a short time later,” Carlton FC said in a statement.

“Will Hayward experienced a minor cut to the head after a fall, and admitted himself to hospital where he received stitches before being discharged.

“The club has been in regular contact with both players, with priority for their wellbeing and both players have now received the necessary care relating to their separate circumstances.”

9News understands illicit drugs may have been present at the gathering.

Nine.com.au is not suggesting any of the players named have taken recreational drugs.

Carlton did not comment on the allegations of drug use at the party.

The club also refused to comment on potential punishments for the players involved.

Due to the incident taking place in the off-season, it may be some time before official sanctions – if any – are handed down.

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The players are currently on leave from the club.

Tasmanian-born Cowan, 21, has played four seasons for Carlton after becoming a Blue in 2022.

Former Sydney forward Hayward, 27, signed with Carlton in 2025 and has played one season for the Blues after nine years with the Swans.

Nine.com.au has contacted the AFL for comment.