Port Adelaide could introduce untried draftee Riley Bonner for Saturday night’s Showdown XLI.
The Power will be forced to make at least one change ahead of the clash with the Crows, with forward Chad Wingard ruled out for the rest of the season with a hamstring injury. Doubt also surrounds key tall Charlie Dixon who is battling ongoing ankle issues.
An opportunity could come Bonner’s way after the lively left-footer impressed for Port’s SANFL side in last week’s win over Glenelg. The 19-year-old defender collected 21 possessions and had a team-high six rebound 50ms to help the Magpies record a 55-point win over the Tigers.
Bonner was selected by Port Adelaide with pick No.37, the Power’s first pick, at last year’s National Draft.
Former Demon Jimmy Toumpas could also be rewarded after booting three majors from 23 possessions in the victory at Gliderol Stadium.
Veteran forward Jay Schulz (two goals) or fellow goalkicker John Butcher appear the most likely replacements should Dixon be declared unavailable.
Speedster Brendon Ah Chee (26 possessions, six inside 50ms) and ball magnet Kane Mitchell (31 possessions, nine tackles, eight inside 50ms) are also in the frame to return to the senior team.
