Adelaide has made four changes ahead of its Round Three match against Geelong at GMHBA Stadium on Thursday night.
Defender Hugh Bond will return to the line-up after missing last week’s match due to illness, while utility Luke Nankervis is set to for his first match of 2026, as is forward/midfielder Zac Taylor.
“Zac was a regular at AFL level throughout 2025, in a year that highlighted his development,” Executive General Manager Football Adam Kelly said.
“His class has certainly been on show in our recent SANFL trials and we have confidence built off his previous performances that he will come in and play his role for the team.
“Luke has been on the cusp of selection in the opening rounds and his opportunity presents this week.
“He has developed as both a mid and half back and his athleticism provides flexibility in the way in which we can use him depending on what the team needs.”
As confirmed on Wednesday, forward Finnbar Maley will make his Club debut after the former Kangaroo impressed in a recent bout of SANFL trial games.
Kelly said Maley had made a strong impression since arriving at the Club, earning recognition for both his impact at training and the enthusiasm he brought to the group.
“Finnbar certainly has been a presence on and off the field in a positive way,” Kelly said.
“On field, his strengths have been presented through his competitiveness, especially in the air, and off field, he has brought a wonderful energy and authenticity that have seen him being embraced by his teammates and our staff.”
Senior Coach Matthew Nicks confirmed on Wednesday morning that Crows Captain Jordan Dawson won’t make the trip to Geelong after reporting calf tightness.
Veteran Taylor Walker will also be managed, while fellow veteran Rory Laird (calf) and recruit Callum Ah Chee (hamstring) come out of the side due to injuries.
Charlie Edwards, Reilly O’Brien, and James Borlase have been named as the emergencies.
Adelaide faces Geelong at GMHBA Stadium on Thursday at 7pm (ACDT).
The match will be broadcast live on Channel 7 Adelaide, Fox Footy and Kayo.
Adelaide’s SANFL team will open its 2026 campaign with a clash against West Adelaide on Saturday. The team will be released on Thursday evening.
IN: Maley, Nankervis, Taylor, Bond
OUT: Ah Chee, Laird (injured), Dawson, Walker (managed)
Adelaide’s Round Three team is:
