In the upcoming AFL Round 9, Richmond is set to unleash first-year draftee Tom Sims in their clash against West Coast. Adem Yze has made two changes to the team, with Maurice Rioli and James Trezise being dropped to accommodate Sims and young gun Kane McAuliffe.
On the other side, the Eagles will be missing Jeremy McGovern due to injury and Bo Allan due to suspension. Jack Williams has also been omitted, while Sandy Brock, Tom Gross, and ruck Bailey Williams make their return, indicating a potential strategy shift with two genuine rucks in the lineup.
Across the league, various teams are gearing up for exciting matchups. Geelong has made three changes, introducing new players like Gryan Miers and Jed Bews, while the Giants are bringing in Jake Riccardi and debutant Cody Angove.
North Melbourne is bolstering its lineup with the return of George Wardlaw, Aidan Corr, and Toby Pink. Essendon is introducing two debutants among several changes, while Port Adelaide is making significant alterations ahead of the Showdown.
Carlton’s Charlie Curnow is expected to play despite a recent training incident, while St Kilda’s Mattaes Phillipou is set to make his season debut. Hawthorn will manage Tom Barrass, and Melbourne welcomes back Clayton Oliver after his absence due to personal reasons.
Essendon is preparing for a clash with Sydney, featuring debutants Archer Day-Wicks and Lewis Hayes. Sydney, on the other hand, will have Ben Paton stepping in for the suspended Lewis Melican.
Brayden Fiorini’s impressive VFL performance has earned him a spot in the Bulldogs’ lineup, as they face a setback with Adam Treloar’s injury. Port Adelaide, after a disappointing performance, has axed several players ahead of the Showdown.
As the AFL Round 9 approaches, teams are finalizing their lineups for the upcoming matches. Each squad is strategizing to secure crucial wins and maintain their positions on the ladder in this highly competitive season.