Liam Patrick, Jack Shannahan and Tim Eldridge are welcome inclusions for NT Thunder, who face rivals Aspley at TIO Stadium in Round 17 of the NEAFL.
It is the third time the Territory will face Aspley this season, after defeating the Hornets by 43 points in Round 3 and 45 points in Round 11 this year.
NT Thunder will celebrate their heritage by wearing an historic 1966-style guernsey, while veteran Cameron Ilett will celebrate his 150th game for the club.
Head Coach Xavier Clarke said it is an important week for the team, on and off the field, for a multitude of reasons.
“This week we celebrate our heritage, wearing a special-designed guernsey in commemoration of every player to have worn the jumper to represent the Territory over the years,” Clarke said.
“Our players are really excited and proud to wear the jumper, particularly at home in front of some NT football legends.
“It is an important clash against Aspley, we have a healthy rivalry after defeating them in last year’s grand final and it is always a good contest.
“We have performed well against them this season and a win tomorrow will cement our spot in second place on the NEAFL ladder.
“We have a few key ins to the side with Liam Patrick, Jack Shannahan and Tim Eldridge returning to the team.
“Liam always provides that spark up forward, he applies pressure inside-50 and manages to make something out of nothing,” Clarke said.
Jack Long and Patrick Taban are unavailable for the clash, while youngster Tony Olango will miss due to knee soreness.
Round 17 NEAFL Team to play Aspley
6:30pm Saturday 23 July 2016
TIO Stadium
B: Ben Rioli, Daniel Russell, Michael Bowden
HB: Raphael Clarke, Justin Beugelaar, Jonathan Peris
C: Sam Talbot, Jared Brennan, Daly Shannon*
HF: Shannon Rioli, Liam Patrick, Phillip Wills
F: Justin Cooper, Darren Ewing, Luke Bath
Foll: Sebastion Guilhaus, Matthew Rosier, Cameron Ilett
Inter: Jack Williams, Aaron Lonergan, Richard Tambling
Emer: Matthew Bricknell, Michael Mummery, Ezekiel Frank
In: Liam Patrick, Jack Shannahan, Tim Eldridge
Out: Jack Long (unavailable), Patrick Taban (unavailable), Tony Olango (knee)
* Indicates 23rd player