West Coast forward Jamie Cripps has departed his club's Queensland hub in a return to Perth as he plans for the arrival of his first child, per 7news.com.au.
The premiership Eagle is in doubt to return to the playing group during the home and away season, unless West Coast can snatch a home game in their round 18 clash against the Kangaroos.
Cripps is set to undergo two weeks of mandatory self-quarantine, potentially missing out on the birth of his first child, but has planned to be by the side of partner Olivia.
West Coast football operations manager Craig Vozzo said Cripps had made his partner and their baby his highest priority.
“We knew this was a likely scenario and as a club we are fully committed to the ‘family first’ mantra that is an important value at our club,” he said.
“We are not sure when Jamie will return, we will work through those logistics at the appropriate time.”
The Eagles are hoping to welcome back star onballer Elliot Yeo in he coming weeks as he joins the players in Queensland following a groin injury.
