There are a few injury concerns going into the first event of the 2016 season, with some major confirmations already flowing through from WSL:

Sponsor Wildcard – Mikey Wright

Trials Wildcard – Wade Carmichael

Mick Fanning – watch this space

The seemingly constant footage of him finding shade in a super-bank barrel has obviously dispelled any concerns about his ability to surf his home event. He surprised many though with his announcement that he will be making 2016 a ‘personal year’ and that he will only surf in ‘select events’. He was at pains to inform everyone that this was NOT a retirement, and that he will be back again after sorting out some personal stuff. We don’t blame him at all after seeing all the heavy moments that were dealt to him in 2015, but we do warn fantasy players to check the announcements from Mick after Bells. At least he seems to be open and pro-active in letting everyone know beforehand. Good luck Mick!

Owen Wright – confirmed

After a serious head injury that cost him his place in the Pipe event and, ultimately, his shot at a maiden title, Owen has confirmed that he will sit out the start of the 2016 season to continue his rehab. It’s a massive blow for the talented goofy-footer, especially after his lengthy absence in 2013 due to back injury. It’s an even bigger blow to the tour, with Adam Melling announced as his replacement until at least the JBay contest.

Bede Durbidge – confirmed

After shattering his pelvis (that hurts us just to TYPE), Bede still has a way to go before he will be ready to compete again. While he has only announced an official withdrawal from the QuikPro at this stage, we’d be very surprised to see him back in a contest singlet any time soon. We’re interested to see how he does in the commentary booth, as the mic team is getting a bit stale; where’s Occy these days anyway? Bede will be replaced by Stuart Kennedy, an Australian QS surfer who hails from nearby world-class point break Lennox Head.

Alejo Muniz – confirmed

Alejo has withdrawn from the QuikPro due to a knee injury. Sebastian Zietz is his replacement. He has already been added to the draw.

Alex Ribeiro – unconfirmed

Alex has pulled out of the SurfFest 6000 point QS event in Manly and, if rumours are to be believed, he is unlikely to be involved in the Gold Coast event. Ribeiro apparently suffered an old-fashioned ‘fin-chop’ while surfing in Sydney and has had stitches. Some reports claim that he may recover in time to surf the first event, while other rumours claim that his achilles was damaged by the cut and that he could be out longer. We will report any official withdrawals or updates, but for now be wary.

Kolohe Andino – unconfirmed

Kolohe competed in and won the Manly QS event last year, but isn’t even in the 2016 draw. He is usually pretty active on the QS tour (he often needs the results for requalification) so his absence is a little concerning. He has had an ongoing toe injury, but he has not been officially withdrawn by any means. Maybe he’s just soaking up some of the incredible waves that the Goldie has been serving up these past few weeks? Watch this space.

Since the official draw still contains Owen, Bede and others, we have composed an alternate heat draw on our twitter feed here. This draw is not official and could be subject to change even if correct at time of publishing. Good luck…