Adelaide has named its first team of 2024, with the Club set to open its campaign against Gold Coast at People First Stadium on Saturday.
As confirmed earlier on Thursday, recruit Chris Burgess will debut for the Club, following his off-season move from the Suns.
The 28-year-old kicked three goals in the Suns’ 2023 VFL grand final victory, while also claiming the past two Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller Medals as the competition’s leading goal kicker.
Midfielder Sam Berry returns to the side for the first time since Round 10 last year after a strong pre-season at West Lakes.
Adelaide Head of Football Adam Kelly said Burgess and Berry’s inclusions would be a boost to the side.
“Chris was identified as a player who certainly can impact at AFL level with the flexibility in his game to play multiple roles,” Kelly said.
“He has impressed all from the moment he walked into the Club and has worked extremely hard to be ready for the opportunity that has presented this week.
“Sam has really impressed through the pre-season and his strengths have come to the fore.
“We have enjoyed being able to see what Sam has been able to do in conjunction with our other mids and watching their connection evolve across the summer months has been pleasing.”
Forward Taylor Walker will miss the Round One match after being ruled out with back spasms, while fellow forward Lachlan Gollant will feature.
“Lachy has shown that he can perform at AFL level but the opportunity hasn’t been there when Tex and Fog have been available and in form,” Kelly said.
“He has developed every year that he has been on our list and that’s a credit to the hard work he has put in and determination he has shown.”
Forwards Luke Pedlar and Lachlan Murphy have been named on the bench, alongside Matt Crouch, Mitch Hinge and Jake Soligo - one of which will be selected as the substitute one hour before the game.
Elliott Himmelberg, Ned McHenry and Mark Keane are the emergencies.
Adelaide takes on Gold Coast at People First Stadium on Saturday at 7.40pm (ACDT).
The game will be broadcast live on Channel 7 in Adelaide, Fox Footy and Kayo.
Adelaide’s Round One Team is:
