INS – K.Brown (AFL debut), Tomlinson, Tholstrup
OUTS – Petracca (inj.), Billings, Laurie (omitted)
MELBOURNE has called upon a combination of young and experienced talent to bolster its side ahead of Round 15.
The Dees made three changes to its final team, welcoming AFL debutant Kynan Brown, Koltyn Tholstrup and Adam Tomlinson.
It was announced yesterday that Brown was set to follow in his father’s footsteps, selected to run out for the first time in the red and blue.
Nathan Brown, Kynan’s father, played 146 games for the Dees across the late 90’s and early 2000’s.
Tholstrup comes in for his second senior game, first debuting during Round 5 against Brisbane.
The edition of Brown and Tholstrup will see all three of the club’s 2023 draftees play together on the MCG, with Caleb Windsor also retaining his spot.
Tomlinson has recalled his place inside the 23 after a stint of consistent displays across both the AFL and VFL including his most recent performance of 23 disposals and 12 intercepts.
Christian Petracca will spend an indefinite amount of time on the sidelines after suffering a spleen injury, while Jack Billings and Bailey Laurie have been omitted.
Laurie will join Taj Woewodin and Tom Fullarton on the Saturday night emergency list.
The Dees will host the Roos at the MCG for the Round 15 game with the home side honouring its annual Pink Lady match.
Melbourne’s pre-game warm-up will be extra special as the club celebrates 20 years of partnership with Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).
Australians who have been impacted by breast cancer will have their names displayed and worn afront of the club’s AFL warm-up tee, replacing the traditional Zurich logo.
This is an exciting initiative from Co-Principal Partner Zurich, who has thrown its support behind BCNA for this weekend’s Pink Lady Match.
While we won't see the Pink Lady on the 'G this year, fans can show their support by buying a virtual a spot on the 'G in BCNA's Virtual Pink Lady.
Supporters can also purchase a scarf, beanie, poncho or banner, all helping raise important funds for the organisation.
Check out the full team below.
