North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson has revealed the Kangaroos' selection committee has a "tough" few days to finalise their side for a Round 1 trip to Sydney's west, with a pair of debutants confirmed to play while two veteran defenders are no certainty of featuring.
The Roos will head to Engie Stadium to face the Giants following the New South Wales side's strong performance over reigning premiers Collingwood during Opening Round.
Top four draft selections Colby McKercher and Zane Duursma haven't put a foot wrong since landing at Arden Street in November, with the teenaged duo set to face GWS this week.
Clarkson and his coaching cohort will have almost two sides worth of players to pick for their season opener, giving them plenty to consider in their selection process.
The club confirmed on Tuesday that both rookies will feature against the Giants to mark their maiden appearances at the top level.
The Kangaroos could be without both of their captains for their venture north, with Luke McDonald no certainty to play after a heavily interrupted pre-season.
The father-son Roo has continued to build his workload in recent weeks as he eyes a return from a hamstring injury that has plagued his summer. Fellow skipper Jy Simpkin has already been ruled out of GWS clash due to concussion.
While McDonald remains in the frame for a spot under Clarkson this week, the club won't risk the 29-year-old and could instead look to bring him back into the team for their Round 2 clash with Fremantle.
Key defender Aidan Corr is in a similar position after suffering a severe ankle injury late last year, with the Roos to weigh up whether they afford the former Giants backman an extra week to aid his workload.
The Roos are expected to unveil new recruits Zac Fisher, Dylan Stephens and Toby Pink for their opener, with the latter also earning the praise of his coach on Tuesday.
North Melbourne's squad will be released on Thursday evening ahead of their clash with GWS at 4:35pm (AEDT) on Saturday.
