The 2026 AFL pre-season is here, offering the first real glimpses into how clubs will address 2025's shortcomings.

While there's no premiership points available, a strong showing can build momentum into the 2026 campaign, and demonstrate what is potentially possible once the home-and-away season gets underway.

So, here's what your favourite AFL club must show in their two pre-season fixtures this month...

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North Melbourne

Signs of defensive improvement

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 14: Jordan Clark of the Dockers tackles Harry Sheezel of the Kangaroos during the round 14 AFL match between North Melbourne Kangaroos and Fremantle Dockers at Optus Stadium, on June 14, 2025, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 14: Jordan Clark of the Dockers tackles Harry Sheezel of the Kangaroos during the round 14 AFL match between North Melbourne Kangaroos and Fremantle Dockers at Optus Stadium, on June 14, 2025, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

The Kangaroos are building confidence that their current playing list will be the one to make the jump toward the top 10, and much of that belief can be built on the fact that the Roos have figured out how to turn clearance dominance into scores.

Alastair Clarkson's young side ranked third for centre clearances, second for stoppage clearances, second for first possession rate, second for scores from centre bounce, and fourth for scores from stoppage in 2025.

However, if these numbers are to matter, they need to stop the Sherrin from flowing the other way too. The Kangaroos have struggled to stop opposing midfields having their way with them, allowing the most points from stoppage in the league, and the second-most from centre bounce.

With fixtures against Collingwood and Melbourne looming, pre-season will be a perfect opportunity to demonstrate some growth in that area and to hopefully build some excitement into the home-and-away season.

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