Essendon named star James Hird to play the round one AFL game against Sydney despite concerns over a calf injury.

The Bombers named the former skipper in a forward pocket, and also included ex-Carlton midfielder Scott Camporeale in the side, along with Chris Heffernan, who will play for the Dons again after three seasons with Melbourne.

Geelong has punted on risking big duo Steven King and Brad Ottens to play the Brisbane Lions at Skilled Stadium despite their limited pre-season campaigns because of injury.

The Lions will play ex-Swan Ben Fixter.

Reigning premier Sydney named ex-Bomber Ted Richards to play his old side, along with former Geelong big man Paul Chambers.

Hawthorn named former St Kilda forward Brent Guerra to play Fremantle in Launceston on Sunday.

The Kangaroos will welcome two former adversaries into their side to play Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on Saturday: former Hawthorn fullback Jonathan Hay and midfielder Kasey Green, originally from West Coast.

Former Port Adelaide hard nut Byron Pickett, also a former Kangaroo, will play for his third club when he lines up for Melbourne against Carlton at Telstra Dome in Sunday's twilight game.

The Blues will unveil Marc Murphy, the No.1 pick from last year's national draft.

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