North Melbourne defender Daniel Pratt knows taking so long to break back into the AFL is a good sign for the team's strength.

The 28-year-old, one of only six current Kangaroos to have played more than 100 senior games, will return for the first time this season in Sunday's twilight game against Richmond at Etihad Stadium.

It is a landmark game for the 'Roos and Tigers, given neither side has a win this season.

North have had a tough start, with two Perth trips and defending premiers Collingwood, while Richmond drew with St Kilda.

Pratt, who will come in for Aaron Edwards, had a solid pre-season before failing to make the team for round one.

While the 111-game backman admitted to frustration at having to wait until round five, he added it reflected the strength of the North defence.

"It's been a little bit difficult I guess, having to perform at VFL level to come back into the side, as frustrating as it can be," he said.

"But it's probably good that we have competitions for spots down in the backline at the minute.

"Me personally, I'd rather have competition for spots in the team than not - it makes everyone a bit more accountable, I think."

While North struggled against the Magpies, they had their chances against West Coast and Fremantle.

Coach Brad Scott said during the week it was important to start winning, otherwise morale could suffer.

"Every week you need a win, but it's probably important to get one on the board, just to get rolling for the start of the year," Pratt said.

"It's a bit disappointing, but we've had a tough three weeks - you never make excuses for your performances, but two Perth trips and then the premiers is pretty tough.

"It would have been good to get away with one or two wins, we haven't been able to.

"We're not far off, we're doing a lot of things right."

A key focus for Pratt and his fellow defenders will be restricting star Richmond forward Jack Riewoldt, who kicked four goals with limited opportunities last week in the loss to Collingwood.

Nathan Grima and Robbie Tarrant are likely to share defensive duties on Riewoldt.

"He's a fantastic player and he's a very strong contested mark," Pratt said of Riewoldt.

"He took a couple of really strong grabs last week against Collingwood, so he's going to be a tough customer."

Richmond have also bolstered their defence for this match, regaining Luke McGuane and Alex Rance from suspension.

They also promoted small forward Ben Nason, who like Pratt will play his first senior game of the season.

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