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Adelaide Crows and Geelong Announce Team Changes for Round Three Match

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AFL Round Three: Crows and Cats Confirm Significant Player Changes

Both the Adelaide Crows and Geelong have reported significant player changes ahead of their Round Three Australian Football League (AFL) match at GMHBA Stadium on Thursday night. The Crows will be without their captain and leading goalkicker, while Geelong's captain is also sidelined. These adjustments follow specific player management decisions, injuries, and tactical inclusions for both clubs.

Adelaide Crows Reshape Lineup for Round Three

The Adelaide Crows have confirmed four changes to their lineup for the upcoming game.

Crows Inclusions
  • Hugh Bond: A defender, returning to the squad after recovering from illness.
  • Luke Nankervis: A utility player, set to make his first appearance of the 2026 season.
  • Zac Taylor: A forward/midfielder who was a regular at the AFL level in 2025 and participated in recent SANFL trial games.
  • Finnbar Maley: A forward who will make his Club debut following strong performances in recent SANFL trial games.
Crows Sidelined
  • Jordan Dawson: The Crows captain will not travel for the match due to calf tightness and will be managed.
  • Taylor Walker: A veteran player, also being managed.
  • Rory Laird: A veteran player, sidelined with a calf injury.
  • Callum Ah Chee: A recruit, out for approximately two months due to a hamstring injury.
Crows Emergencies
  • Charlie Edwards
  • Reilly O’Brien
  • James Borlase

Adelaide Crows coach Matthew Nicks characterized the player absences as an opportunity for less experienced players to step up.

The Crows have a historical record of three wins from 24 visits to Geelong, with their last victory at the venue occurring a notable 13 years ago. The team's schedule includes three six-day breaks within a four-week period, adding to the management challenges.

Geelong Cats Adjustments Ahead of Home Clash

Geelong coach Chris Scott also confirmed player absences and inclusions for his team.

Cats Inclusions
  • Oliver Wiltshire: Selected to play his third AFL game.
  • Oliver Henry: Recalled to the team.
Cats Sidelined
  • Patrick Dangerfield: The Geelong captain is unavailable due to a calf issue.
  • Brad Close: Assigned to the state league to regain match fitness.

Scott described the start of the year for Geelong as 'unusual', acknowledging the player movements.

The team currently holds a record of one win and one loss, following a 12-day break before the upcoming fixture. Scott noted that the fixture schedule allows for advance planning.