Crows and Giants Boosted as Roos Make Big Changes for Round 22
This Sunday’s AFL action is shaping up to be a real talking point, with several big names returning, surprise inclusions, and some tough omissions across the board.
For Adelaide, Rory Laird is making his way back into the side after being managed last week. His versatility has been praised all season, adapting from a long stint in the midfield to excelling across half-back. He’s joined by Chris Burgess, who’s been rewarded for a standout SANFL season—48 goals in 15 matches doesn’t go unnoticed. Burgess has been recognised for his leadership and consistency, finally getting his AFL opportunity. Luke Pedlar also returns after impressing coaches with his physicality and impact at ground level in the reserves.
But while the Crows are strengthened in some areas, they’ll be without veteran forward Taylor Walker, who’s being managed for the trip west, and both Brayden Cook and Brodie Smith have been left out. The challenge for Adelaide is to maintain momentum after last week’s win over Hawthorn as they face West Coast at Optus Stadium.
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Speaking of West Coast, they’ve made three changes, with Jack Graham returning from a four-game suspension, Matt Flynn slotting back into the ruck, and Sandy Brock coming in down back. Missing for them are Harry Edwards, Bailey Williams, and Tyrell Dewar. The Eagles will be aiming to give their home fans something to cheer about against a Crows side fighting to stay in the hunt.
In Canberra, Greater Western Sydney have regained their captain and star forward Toby Greene after his one-week suspension. Max Gruzewski also comes in, replacing the managed Jesse Hogan. The Giants will be eyeing a strong performance to boost their finals chances.
North Melbourne, meanwhile, have rung in four changes, headlined by the return of ruckman Tristan Xerri and Bailey Scott, plus two debutants—Geordie Payne and Cooper Trembath. Trembath’s rise from suburban football to AFL within a matter of months is the stuff of footy dreams. Out of the side are suspended forward Paul Curtis, injured spearhead Nick Larkey, and two others due to injury or omission.
And in Melbourne, the Demons will give defender Jed Adams his debut against an unchanged Western Bulldogs side in the BCNA Pink Lady game at the MCG. Adams replaces Harry Sharp, who’s been omitted. It’s a clash with added emotion, as tributes and awareness efforts for breast cancer take centre stage.
So, whether it’s a veteran returning to steady the ship, a rookie seizing a career-changing moment, or a club’s captain leading from the front, this Sunday’s round of matches has no shortage of storylines. Expect energy, intensity, and maybe a few surprises before the final sirens sound.
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