Carlton's interim coach Josh Fraser readies team for clash with Collingwood

Josh Fraser, 44, is serving as interim head coach of the Carlton Football Club after taking over a season that began 1‑8. In his first eight games he has guided the Blues to a 7‑1 record, including a recent seven‑game winning streak.

A former Collingwood player with 200 AFL games, Fraser has previously coached the club’s VFL affiliates and Collingwood’s VFL side. His calm, clear communication style has been praised, with a Collingwood insider noting he "spoke very well" and "everyone loved him and played for him." Fraser told media, "I'm all in on Carlton this weekend," underscoring his commitment.

Ahead of the upcoming round, Carlton will meet Collingwood, a rivalry highlighted by Collingwood coach Craig McRae who said the match "is going to be, at times, a bit of a struggle" and noted the "Collingwood flavour" in Carlton’s recent performances. The outcome could influence both clubs’ chances of securing a finals berth.