A defamation trial involving former Carlton football club chief executive Luke Sayers and his estranged wife, Cate, has started in Melbourne. The matter is being heard in court as the parties dispute claims related to alleged defamatory statements made between them. All reports say the proceedings have commenced, but do not provide further details on the specific allegations, evidence, or legal arguments presented in court. The case is framed as a civil defamation dispute rather than a criminal matter, with the focus on whether statements attributed to Sayers (or his actions as described by the plaintiff) caused reputational harm to Cate, and whether any challenged comments are protected by legal defences. The accounts also consistently describe the relationship between the parties as estranged and identify Luke Sayers as a former Carlton boss. Further information on witnesses, filings, and the substance of the claims is not included in the excerpts provided. The trial continues as the court process moves to the presentation of evidence and argument.