Melbourne veteran Jack Viney will play his first game of the season and in a Wildcard Final nonetheless.
The former Demons skipper has been recalled to the senior side after battling a wretched injury run in 2026 that featured Achilles and back problems.
Melbourne hosts Carlton at the MCG on Saturday night in the second Wildcard Final.
Viney is a heart and soul player made for the finals stage and he will play his first game back at AFL level since Round 24, 2025.
It's a surprise call by coach Steven King. The 32-year-old midfielder played one VFL match upon returning from injury this year in Round 21. He collected 20 disposals, laid seven tackles and kicked 1.2 against Box Hill.
The Demons have lost key defender Jake Lever and key forward Matthew Jefferson to injuries, while veteran Christian Salem has been dropped.
Jake Melksham, who recently announced his retirement, will return to the side and young gun defender Xavier Taylor will also return to the senior line up for the first time since Round 7.
Carlton has made one change, with veteran key defender Nick Haynes returning to the side. Wade Derkson makes way for him.
Blues forward-winger Will Hayward failed to recover in time from an ankle injury sustained in Round 23.
In the other Wildcard Final, Collingwood duo Isaac Quaynor and Patrick Lipinski will return for Scott Pendlebury (injured) and Liam Puncher.
Meanwhile, Western Bulldogs ruck Tim English will return to the side and Lachie Carmichael will go out.
