The return of star defender Chelsea Biddell headlines three inclusions for Adelaide’s Round 11 clash against North Melbourne at North Hobart Oval on Sunday afternoon.
The three-time All-Australian comes back into the line-up after missing last week’s win against the Suns due to a minor hamstring injury.
Adelaide Executive General Manager Women’s Football Bree Brock said Biddell would provide a welcome boost for the trip to Tasmania.
“We are excited to have Chelsea back in the team this week, we all know the quality of player she is and how important she is for us behind the ball,” Brock said.
“She’s been diligent in her recovery from this hamstring injury and gotten through everything we have asked of her this week.
“Chelsea is very excited to be back out there with her teammates and will give us a boost for what is a big game for our season.”
Forward duo Christina Leuzzi and Hannah Munyard have been recalled after strong performances in recent scrimmage matches.
“Hannah and Christina have earned their place back in the team after strong performances both at training and in the scrimmages,” Brock said.
“Across the season we have seen them have the ability to have an impact with their speed ahead of the ball, and feel like that will help us this week.”
Irishwoman Niamh Kelly will miss the trip after suffering a hamstring injury during Thursday afternoon’s main training session.
“It’s unfortunate to lose Niamh for this week’s game, she has been in great form and is a valuable contributor for us,” Brock said.
“We’ll assess the injury further in the coming days and provide an update following that.”
Maddi Newman also comes out of the side after rupturing her ACL against Gold Coast last week, while Lily Tarlinton has been omitted.
Tarlinton will be an emergency alongside Olivia Gorman and Juliet Kelly.
Adelaide will get an opportunity to test itself against the reigning premiers this Sunday.
Brock said facing the Kangaroos in Hobart was a challenge the group could not wait to undertake.
“North Melbourne have been a benchmark of the competition for the past couple of seasons, so it’s a great opportunity for our young group to itself against the best,” Brock said.
“We’ve been really impressed by the growth we’ve shown this season, and feel a challenge like this has come at a perfect time for us.”
Adelaide takes on North Melbourne at North Hobart Oval this Sunday afternoon, with the match to start at 12.35pm (ACDT).
Fans can watch the game live on Fox Footy, Kayo and 7Two Adelaide.
