The Gold Coast SUNS will blood their first debutant of season 2022, with James Tsitas one of two inclusions named ahead of Collingwood on Saturday night.

The mature aged recruit will finally see reward for effort after impressing in his 100^th VFL game on Saturday and provides a new edge to the SUNS’ forward half with his hard-nosed approach. 

Connor Budarick will also reprise his role in the back six, officially being cleared to play after missing last week rehabilitating a hamstring injury.

The run and carry that the defender provides will be a welcome addition against a Collingwood outfit, who have won their past five fixtures.

Alex Davies is outgoing from the side after suffering a knee injury in the Port Adelaide match, while Jy Farrar will also miss due to AFL Health and Safety Protocols.

Brayden Fiorini, Rory Atkins, Hewago Oea and Darcy Macpherson have been selected as emergencies, with one to be named medical substitute on Saturday.

The SUNS are expecting their biggest crowd of the year for this blockbuster match against a seventh placed Collingwood and fans are encouraged to get in the gates early.

A live special performance of ‘Horses’ by Daryl Braithwaite will launch the huge night of entertainment at 6:30pm.

The Round 16 fixture will be broadcast live on the Seven Network (check your local guides) and across both Fox Sports and Kayo platforms.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to track closures on the Beenleigh & Gold Coast lines, buses will replace all train services between Park Road & Varsity Lakes on Game Day. Please allow additional travel time if travelling to the ground by train this weekend. For all your match day information, click here.