MELBOURNE will field a 28-man squad in its opening hit-out against external opposition, taking on North Melbourne in match simulation at Casey Fields.
The expanded squad gives supporters an early look at more of Melbourne’s list as pre-season preparations are put to the test.
Several new faces are set to feature in red and blue for the first time, with Jack Steele, Changkuoth Jiath, Xavier Taylor, Max Heath, Brody Mihocek and Latrelle Pickett, all named.
Max Gawn will be rested for this week’s match after representing Victoria in AFL Origin last week. The decision forms part of a planned approach to ensure the skipper is primed for Melbourne’s clash with Richmond next week.
Aidan Johnson will be unavailable after sustaining a hamstring injury at training. Scans confirmed the injury required surgery to repair the hamstring tendons, with Johnson having since undergone a successful procedure. He will commence his rehabilitation program next week.
Harrison Petty will also miss this week’s match after sustaining a concussion. While he has now exited concussion protocols, the Club is taking a cautious approach with his return to play. Petty is progressing well under the guidance of our medical team.
Demon defender Steven May will not participate in tomorrow’s practice match as he is currently on personal leave and will be absent from any club activities indefinitely.
May’s leave was granted following discussion between the player, his management and the football club.
Following the AFL hit out, Casey will take on North Melbourne’s VFL side in three quarters of match simulation, scheduled to begin at 6.30pm AEDT.
The AFL match simulation gets underway at 4pm AEDT and will be broadcast live on FOX Footy and Kayo Sports.
The match marks another milestone in the City of Casey’s 16-year partnership with the Melbourne Football Club.
Melbourne Football Club Chief Executive Officer, Paul Guerra said the club was thrilled to return to Casey for the practice match.
“There is always great anticipation for the first practice match of the year, so it is very exciting to be hosting this hit-out against North Melbourne at Casey Fields next week,” Mr Guerra said.
“Our 16-year partnership with the City of Casey is an important component of the club and we are proud to work with Mayor Stefan Koomen, CEO Glenn Patterson and their teams on continuing to find ways this connection can positively impact the community.”
Melbourne match simulation squad vs North Melbourne
2. Jacob Van Rooyen
3. Christian Salem
4. Harvey Langford
5. Xavier Lindsay
6. Caleb Windsor
8. Jake Lever
9. Jack Steele
10. Daniel Turner
12. Koltyn Tholstrup
14. Changkuoth Jiath
15. Ed Langdon
16. Bailey Laurie
19. Xavier Taylor
21. Matthew Jefferson
22. Blake Howes
24. Trent Rivers
25. Tom McDonald
26. Jed Adams
27. Max Heath
28. Brody Mihocek
30. Harry Sharp
31. Bayley Fritsch
32. Tom Sparrow
33. Latrelle Pickett
36. Kysaiah Pickett
37. Kade Chandler
39. Ricky Mentha Jnr
44. Luker Kentfield
