The AFL's pre-season always has plenty of intrigue as excitement builds towards a new season.

Which players are returning? Who's lighting up the track? Is there an early favourite for the premiership? Or the Brownlow?

But on the flip side, injuries and suspensions have plagued summer clashes, which in some cases, have put sides on the back foot before the new campaign begins.

From career-altering injuries to heavy hits and a slithery snake, we assess some of the biggest practice match disasters over the years.

1Saint becomes a sinner

St Kilda veteran Jimmy Webster made the headlines for all the wrong reasons two years ago when he leapt from the ground and collected North Melbourne skipper Jy Simpkin in a practice match.

A landmark case, Webster pleaded guilty to the offence and was immediately sent to the Tribunal. The result was a seven-week suspension, with the action graded as careless conduct, severe impact and high contact.

Simpkin was ruled out for Round 1 with a concussion.

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