Defender Mark Keane will make his long-awaited return to the Crows’ AFL team for Saturday afternoon’s clash against Melbourne at Adelaide Oval.

Keane’s inclusion comes off the back of two strong games in the SANFL, where he successfully navigated a return to footy, following a significant lower leg injury sustained in pre-season.

Crows Executive General Manager Football Adam Kelly said the 26-year-old Irishman had been diligent with his rehab and his return would be a boost for the team.

“We are really excited about Mark’s return, he couldn’t have been any more impressive throughout his rehabilitation after what was a significant injury, and his dedication to a successful return is certainly praise worthy,” Kelly said.

“Mark’s inclusion is an important one, having established himself as one of the competition's leading intercept players in 2025, we love his competitiveness and aggression to take the game on.”

Livewire Izak Rankine will also make his return to the team after spending the past two weeks on the sidelines recovering from a calf injury.

All-time Club leading goalkicker Taylor Walker rounds out the inclusions, with the 36-year-old taking his place in the team after missing last week’s game due to suspension.

“Izak is a critically important player to us, prior to his injury he was establishing himself in our midfield, adding to his versatility as a player and the ways in which he impacts games,” Kelly said.

“While his X-factor attributes are rightfully celebrated, we love other aspects of his game that may not be as heralded, including his ability to get after the opposition and his want to bring his teammates into the game.

“Tex was very good against Geelong a fortnight ago before disappointingly missing last week through suspension. 

“His big-game experience will certainly help against the Dees who have positioned themselves inside the top four.”

Defender Josh Worrell comes out of the team due to illness, while Luke Pedlar will miss the game with a hamstring injury.

Forward Toby Murray has been omitted, but has been named on the emergency list alongside Hugh Bond and Billy Dowling.

Adelaide’s match against Melbourne will mark the club’s annual Emergency Services Round, honouring volunteers and all of the state’s emergency service heroes.

The Crows take on the Demons at Adelaide Oval on Saturday at 12.45pm.

For more information on what’s happening pre, during and post-game, head to our match day hub here.

Tickets available here.

IN: Keane, Rankine, Walker.

OUT: Pedlar (injured), Worrell (illness), T Murray (omitted)

Adelaide’s Round 15 team is: