Sam Naismith is to play his first AFL game in almost four years when he makes his Richmond debut in the opening-round clash with Gold Coast.
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The Tigers will be without superstar Dustin Martin (corked calf) and captain Toby Nankervis (foot) as they go head-to-head with their former coach Damien Hardwick at Heritage Bank Stadium on Saturday.
Nankervis's injury has opened the door for Naismith to complete a remarkable comeback, having been delisted by Sydney 18 months ago.
The 31-year-old ruckman underwent three knee reconstructions and managed just 30 games during an injury-riddled decade with the Swans, while also enduring family tragedy when he lost his sister Kristi to cancer in 2020.
But an outstanding VFL season with Port Melbourne last year led to an AFL return with Richmond after Ivan Soldo was traded to Port Adelaide.
"He is in good form, big Sammy," Tigers coach Adem Yze said.
"It is an amazing story with the knee reconstructions, the family adversity in his life.
"He stuck to it, played some really good footy at VFL level last year.
"He is an amazing character, so if he is to play we'd be rapt for him."
Seth Campbell will debut for Richmond and Jacob Koschitzke will play in attack alongside Noah Balta in the absence of injured spearhead Tom Lynch (foot).
Gold Coast have been bolstered by the inclusion of Malcolm Rosas Jr, who has overcome a quadriceps injury.
Collingwood veteran Scott Pendlebury has been given the green light to play against Greater Western Sydney at Giants Stadium on Saturday night after battling a knee issue.
John Noble will also play, after being overlooked for the Magpies' grand final win over the Brisbane Lions last year, while Ash Johnson will fill the hole in attack left by injured forward Dan McStay (knee).
Charlie Dean will make his debut and former Fremantle forward Lachie Schultz is another new face for Craig McRae's side.
Giants academy product Harvey Thomas will make his debut alongside former No.1 draft pick Aaron Cadman, who is looking to lock down a regular spot in attack after a strong pre-season.
Carlton dasher Zac Williams has been picked to return in Friday night's clash with Brisbane at the Gabba after missing the entire 2023 season with a knee injury.
Former Essendon and Port Adelaide goal-sneak Orazio Fantasia will play his first game for the Blues, who are seeking revenge for last year's preliminary final defeat to the Lions.
Tom De Koning will lead Carlton's ruck division with support from Harry McKay after Marc Pittonet was named as an emergency.
Australian Associated Press
