West Coast captain Luke Shuey’s inclusion headlines the Eagles line-up set for a final round one tune-up in a practice match against Adelaide at Mineral Resources Park on Friday.
Shuey has been named in the starting midfield alongside Tim Kelly and Elliot Yeo as he builds towards the season-opener against North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium.
The Crows clash will be the last opportunity for players to push their cases for round one selection against opposition, and top draftee Reuben Ginbey will be among those eager to perform following an impressive step up to life as an AFL footballer.
Ginbey was sidelined from last Friday’s match simulation against Port Adelaide by a minor toe complaint, while skilled left-footer Jamaine Jones is also into the team after missing the Power clash for family reasons.
Star ruck Nic Naitanui won’t face the Crows as he manages some lingering Achilles soreness.
His absence will allow emerging duo Bailey Williams and Callum Jamieson another opportunity to impress coach Adam Simpson, while Jake Waterman will line-up at centre half-forward with Jack Darling (ankle) sidelined.
Pleasingly, Dom Sheed, Tom Cole, Oscar Allen and Campbell Chesser will all back up from the Power win having returned from long-term injuries.
West Coast and Adelaide will play four quarters before a short break and three further periods of action involving a number of Eagles not selected in the 26-man squad.
The AFL has implemented heat mitigation measures, including quarter time and three-quarter time breaks extended from six minutes to eight minutes and an additional water carrier for both clubs.
The practice match will be broadcast on Fox Footy and streamed on Kayo, with bouncedown at 4.40pm.