The Thursday Team - Round 1

So here we are. Some 174 days after our historic triumph at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on that fateful Saturday in October, our Premiership defence officially begins at the very same ground. This time, however, our opponents are a completely different kettle of fish: Collingwood.

Whilst the Magpies have had no shortage of media attention this week, it's important that we don't focus completely on what's happening on their side of town, because there are some very interesting discussion points coming out of the Western Oval this week as well, particularly at the selection table, which we'll have a look at right now:

Western Bulldogs

B: D.Morris, F.Roberts, J.Johanissen HB: S.Biggs, E.Wood, R.Murphy, C: L.Hunter, L.Dahlhaus, M.Boyd HF: T.Liberatore, Z.Cordy, J.Stringer F: T.McLean, T.Cloke, L.Picken R: T.Boyd, M.Bontempelli, J.Macrae I/C: M.Suckling, S.Crameri, C.Daniel, L.Jong

Emg: C.Smith, T.Campbell, J.Dunkley

Stewart Crameri (No.8), Travis Cloke (C) and Lin Jong (R) didn't play in last year's Grand Final, but will all play in Round 1. Source: Getty Images

CHANGES

Beveridge has rung the changes from the beloved 22 that played in last year’s Grand Final, with five changes being made to the side that triumphed over the Swans. Most of them were forced, with Tory Dickson (adductor) and Jordan Roughead (hamstring) being sidelined, whilst a replacement for Joel Hamling was inevitable for months following his defection to Fremantle. Surprising omissions from that Grand Final side were Clay Smith and Josh Dunkley, both of whom are emergencies. Tom Campbell becomes the third emergency. He had recovered from a rolled ankle in time to play, but a lack of match fitness resulted in Beveridge thinking better of it.

The replacements are class, however. Captain Robert Murphy returns, as does fellow back-flanker Matthew Suckling. Lin Jong was desperately unlucky to miss out on a Grand Final appearance, but a strong pre-season sees him deserving of his chance, whilst Stewart Crameri makes his way onto the bench following a 12-month ban from the game. Boom recruit Travis Cloke is the fifth addition to the side, with his presence set to aid the development of Tom Boyd and Zaine Cordy in the forward line. With no recognized ruckman, Boyd will lead the line, whilst his namesake, Matthew, has been named to play despite suffering a lacerated ear. He will be wearing a helmet, so don’t be concerned if you think you’re seeing two Caleb Daniel’s out there.