HAMILTON Kangaroos hope recruit Jack Hickey will give them versatility against Cobden after overcoming a serious ankle injury.
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The former Camperdown tall will play his third game for his new Hampden league club on Saturday.
Hickey, who hurt ligaments in his ankle in round two, has missed nine matches.
Kangaroos coach Matt Dunn expects him to start in defence against the Bombers.
But the second-year mentor said he could also switch with Jack Pertzel and James Whyte in the ruck or push forward.
“He’s gotten through three or four weeks’ training now,” Dunn said.
Dunn said Pertzel and the high-leaping Whyte had performed strongly in the ruck in Hickey’s absence.
“Jack Pertzel is getting better and better every week,” he said.
“It’s a big challenge for him and James against Levi Dare.”
The Kangaroos will also welcome back defender Josh Meulendyks for the away clash, which was originally scheduled as a night fixture but has returned to a traditional 2pm start time.
Cobden has brought in Jahd Anderson, Jack Hammond and Jake Evans with TAC Cup-bound Trent Reed, the injured Sam Uwland and Nick Nieuwenhuizen out.
Uwland hurt his ankle at training during the bye round. Bombers coach Levi Dare said he was excited about their three additions.
“Jake is our vice-captain, Jack is in our leadership group and Jahd is a very good player on a VFL list,” he said.
South Warrnambool will welcome back favourite son Brent Moloney with the former AFL-listed midfielder to slot into their onball rotation.
But the Roosters are sweating on the availability of Paddy Anderson and Harry Lee. Both players are battling the flu.
North Warrnambool Eagles named utility Dylan Parish (broken arm) for their clash with Camperdown, which will be without coach Phil Carse.
Koroit will unveil recruit Taylor McKenry, a former Penshurst and Panmure footballer who has overcome an ACL injury.
Experienced midfielder Ben Goodall will miss the Saints’ blockbuster against Port Fairy.