Adelaide has made four changes for its Round 22 clash against Richmond at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night.
Veteran defender Rory Laird returns to the line-up, after missing the past three matches with a low-grade syndesmosis injury.
Adelaide Executive General Manager Football Adam Kelly said the return of Laird would bring valuable experience to the Crows’ back six.
“Lairdy has done a great job in rehab to have himself ready for return this week after injuring his syndesmosis in Round 18,” Kelly said.
“He is the consummate professional and his experience compliments the exciting younger half backs that will play alongside him.”
Midfield duo James Peatling and Sam Berry also come back into the side, after missing last week’s match against Essendon due to respective hip/groin and foot injuries.
Kelly said the pair would provide a welcome boost to Adelaide’s midfield mix.
“Sam and James return after being managed with injury last week,” Kelly said.
“They have both had strong seasons to date as important members of our midfield group, highlighted by their ability to hunt the footy and the opposition.”
Ruckman Reilly O’Brien rounds out the inclusions, as he returns for his second AFL match of the season.
He will take the ruck reins from Lachlan McAndrew, who has been managed after featuring in all 20 of the Crows’ matches this season.
“Reilly has continued to be a strong leader of our playing group throughout 2026, his commitment to his game and his team mates has not deviated even though his opportunities at AFL level have not been there,” Kelly said.
“We are in the fortunate position of having two quality rucks, Reilly, who has proven his capability over almost 150 games, and Lachie who has emerged this season.
“Reilly gets the chance this week, and we are confident that he will come in and execute his role.”
Luke Nankervis (chest) and James Borlase (hamstring) come out of the side due to injuries.
Midfielder Jake Soligo has been managed alongside McAndrew.
Toby Murray, Chayce Jones and Soligo have been named as the emergencies.
Adelaide takes on Richmond at Adelaide Oval this Saturday night, with the match to begin at 7.05pm (ACST).
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In: Laird, Berry, Peatling, O’Brien
Out: Nankervis (injured), Borlase (injured), McAndrew (managed), Soligo (managed)
Adelaide’s Round 22 team is:
