Key AFL Players Return to Action in Round Four
Several prominent AFL players are set to make their return to the field in round four, bringing a mix of excitement and strategic adjustments for their respective teams. Among them are Brownlow Medal winners Matt Rowell and Ollie Wines, both making their first appearances of the season.
Matt Rowell’s Comeback
Gold Coast’s Matt Rowell, who claimed the Brownlow Medal last year, has overcome a finger injury that kept him out of the first three games of the season. His return is a significant boost for the Suns, who are currently on an unbeaten run and aim to match their club-record best start with a fourth consecutive win against Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday.
Rowell has been named in the starting line-up of an extended squad, which is crucial for Damien Harwick’s side as key players Christian Petracca (injured) and Bailey Humphrey (suspended) are unavailable. The Demons have also left out Trent Rivers, while veteran forward Jake Melksham is among possible inclusions.
Ollie Wines’ Return
Ollie Wines, the 2021 Brownlow winner, was initially ruled out of Port Adelaide’s first two matches due to suspension and was overlooked when he was free to play last week. However, the 31-year-old has now been selected to bolster the Power (1-2) against Richmond at the MCG on Saturday.
Will Brodie, who was picked ahead of Wines last week, has been dropped from the squad, along with Jackson Mead and key defender Esava Ratugolea (knee), who is also out. Mitch Zadow, a mature-age pre-season pick-up, will make his debut, and Miles Bergman returns from an ankle injury.
Changes for the Tigers
The winless Tigers have made four forced changes, with key defender Noah Balta among those injured. Nathan Broad returns from a calf issue, but the team still faces challenges on the field.
Other Team Updates
Sydney superstar Isaac Heeney has recovered from a hamstring issue and will be available for his side’s clash with West Coast at Optus Stadium on Saturday. However, injury-plagued veteran Elliot Yeo (adductor) is one of three forced outs for the Eagles. Deven Robertson (suspended) is another experienced absentee, though small forward Matt Owies returns.
Essendon’s Nik Cox is a chance to play his first senior game since 2024 on Sunday, with Nate Caddy (concussion) out of the clash with the Western Bulldogs. The Dogs have opted against recalling veteran Adam Treloar despite his strong VFL form last week but will make two changes with Tom Liberatore (hamstring) and Cooper Hynes (omitted) both out.
North Melbourne and Carlton
North Melbourne have recalled veteran forward Jack Darling for their Good Friday clash with Carlton at Marvel Stadium, with ruck star Tristan Xerri out through suspension.
The Blues have named Wade Derksen to debut alongside Nic Newman, who returns after missing the entire 2025 season with a knee injury. Adam Cerra is also back, but young defender Harry Dean will miss under concussion protocols.
Adelaide have regained captain Jordan Dawson and former skipper Taylor Walker among four changes for their clash with unchanged Fremantle at Adelaide Oval, with Jordon Butts (concussion) unavailable.
