PORT ADELAIDE forward Robbie Gray has been forced to withdraw from Friday night’s State of Origin bushfire relief match after being troubled by a sore foot.

Gray was selected to represent his home state of Victoria, something he was deeply honoured by given his links to regions devastated by the fires.

Earlier this year Gray organised a free football clinic and signing session for families in East Gippsland who were impacted by bushfires and brought along teammate Travis Boak and Western Bulldog Marcus Bontempelli.

The 31-year-old developed the foot soreness late last week and it was hoped it would settle over the weekend.

Medical staff have determined the injury is unlikely to recover sufficiently in time for Gray to take part in the origin game.

“I’m obviously disappointed to not be able to get out there not to help out a cause close to my heart,” Gray said.

“I’m from East Gippsland, so it hit home when the fires were sort of close to my family.

“While I won’t be playing on Friday night, it will be great to see the boys run out to put on a show and hopefully raise a lot of money for people who need it most.”

Gray’s foot will continue to be monitored and it’s hoped he will be available to play in Port Adelaide’s final Marsh Community Series hit out against the Bulldogs in Whyalla on Saturday 7 March.

His Port Adelaide teammate Scott Lycett will line up for the All Stars in Friday night’s origin game.