Melbourne has made an unexpected choice in their lineup by reintroducing both Tom McDonald and Ben Brown to their squad, aiming to challenge the Western Bulldogs’ defense on Sunday.
These key forwards might feature alongside Jacob van Rooyen and Bayley Fritsch in the attacking lineup, as they are among the five players brought in. Marty Hore will make his return to the Demons’ lineup since being delisted in 2021, while Taj Woewodin has been added to the squad after being named on the extended bench earlier.
In a surprising move, Brisbane has omitted key defender Jack Payne and introduced Noah Answerth to a revamped defensive setup that doesn’t include Keidean Coleman.
Deven Robertson will step in for the injured Lachie Neale in the midfield, getting the nod over James Tunstill.
Fremantle has decided to entrust Luke Jackson with the sole ruck duties for the Lions clash, opting not to debut Liam Reidy. However, there’s a possibility of deploying either Oscar McDonald or Brennan Cox as a forward, particularly after Cox’s recovery from a preseason wrist injury.
Port Adelaide has chosen not to pair Jordon Sweet with Ivan Soldo in the ruck, instead opting for Jeremy Finlayson as a forward-ruck option, while Jase Burgoyne and Dylan Williams have missed out on selection.
West Coast has included former Hawk Tyler Brockman for his club debut, leaving out Jamaine Jones in a surprising move.
Luke Edwards and Campbell Chesser will both play against Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval, with Ryan Maric and NGA forward Tyrell Dewar named as emergencies alongside Jones.
