Gary Ablett will miss Geelong’s final AFL pre-season hit-out as he fights to overcome a hamstring issue in time for round one.
The dual Brownlow Medal winner is a notable omission for Sunday’s clash with Essendon, having suffered a hamstring strain during match simulation last month.
Fellow stars Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood have both been named to play in Colac, along with veteran defender Harry Taylor.
The 33-year-old Ablett last week said he remained on track for Geelong’s season-opening clash with Melbourne on March 25.
Michael Hurley, Cale Hooker and Tom Bellchambers are among the inclusions for the Bombers.
In other selection news, Cyril Rioli will miss Hawthorn’s clash with Carlton in Launceston and is in doubt for round one.
Rioli spent much of the pre-season on leave and briefly contemplated retirement after his father suffered a near-fatal heart attack.
The small forward suffered a serious knee injury last season which restricted him to just seven games.
Adam Treloar, Jeremy Howe and Darcy Moore will line up for Collingwood against the Western Bulldogs in Moe.
Port Adelaide’s Sam Powell-Pepper (shoulder), Fremantle’s Bradley Hill (quad) and Hawks midfielder Liam Shiels (soreness) are among the notable omissions.
Dave
Guest
Nah Harry, big Walt likes a bet and pays up when he loses. He would be up for a punt. Anyway gaz only needs to play one or two finals this year and it's a big win for the cats.
Harsh Truth Harry
Roar Rookie
Not really Cat, I never copy and paste bloke. You got whiskers in your eyes champ. Show me two of my comments that are the same fella?
Cat
Roar Guru
Yet another Copy and Paste job.
Harsh Truth Harry
Roar Rookie
What did big Harry tell you Cat and Rick "Walter" Disney? less than 8 games from GAJ I bet you and guess what? Hammy pinged already! I tell you what blokes I'll offer you early payout on the bets, you can stick to your guns or Ill give you 50% discount now!