The return of forward Izak Rankine headlines two changes to Adelaide’s team to face Sydney at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night. 

Rankine returns after missing the past three games with a hamstring injury.  

The 23-year-old has enjoyed an impressive first season at West Lakes, booting 35 goals and averaging 15.9 disposals from 18 games. 

Adelaide Executive General Manager Football Adam Kelly said Rankine would provide a welcome boost for the do-or-die clash against the Swans. 

“Izak was very close to selection last week and is ready for Saturday night,” Kelly said. 

“He has been terrific for us this season and is a welcomed inclusion given the magnitude of the game ahead of us.” 

Josh Rachele returns to the Crows’ starting 22 after coming on as the substitute against Brisbane last week.  

While Luke Pedlar comes out of the side and will take Rachele’s place as the substitute. 

“Last week we used Josh in the sub role and thought that he had an impact on the game, this week it will be Luke in that role,” Kelly said. 

“With Izak coming back into the lineup there was a squeeze on forwards for the starting 22 but we are in the strong position of being able to utilise the depth of talent we have in the sub role.

“Across the season, the 23rd player has been important for us on numerous occasions and we are fortunate to have a number of players well suited and able to impact positively in the role.” 

Defender Luke Nankervis has been omitted with Kelly adding the 20-year-old had shown promising signs in his first month of AFL football.  

“The last four weeks have been terrific for Luke’s development and he has certainly shown he can perform at the AFL level,” Kelly said.  

Midfielder Brayden Cook and forward Lachlan Gollant join Pedlar and Nankervis as the emergencies. 

Adelaide takes on Sydney at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night, with the first bounce at 7.10pm.  

Get access to this weekend’s Saturday blockbuster against the Swans for just $1 when you sign up for a 2024 membership.

In: Rankine

Out: Pedlar (Omitted), Nankervis (Omitted) 

Adelaide’s Round 23 team is: