Ruckman Tom Nicholls and excitement machine Jack Martin headline the inclusions in the 29-man squad named for Saturday afternoon’s clash against Greater Western Sydney in Blacktown.

Martin has created quite a buzz this summer, with his exploits at the recent AFL Indigenous All Stars camp being praised by several key figures in the game. After injury cruelled much of his debut season, the 19-year-old will be looking to get his year off on a positive manner against the Giants.

Rebounding defender Sean Lemmens is likely to make his first appearance for the season against the Giants after being rested from last weekend’s game following his participation in the All Stars camp in Perth.

Following Adam Saad’s bright start last weekend, another mature-aged rookie may get an opportunity to impress this weekend with SANFL product Josh Glenn included in the travelling party. The South Australian has crafted a strong debut pre-season at Metricon Stadium with his elite endurance a feature.

With the SUNS coming off a six-day break following the opening game of the pre-season in Townsville, several players have had their workloads managed ahead of the home and away season.

Senior pair Jarrod Harbrow and last week’s stand-in-captain Michael Rischitelli won’t make the trip down to Western Sydney, nor will young key defender Henry Schade who injured his ankle late in the Geelong game.

Gold Coast SUNS Squad
NAB Rd 2 V Greater Western Sydney
Saturday 7th March
Blacktown ISS

2. Zac Smith
4. Jack Martin
6. Alex Sexton
7. Nick Malceski
11. Harley Bennell
13. Andrew Boston
14. Mitch Hallahan
15. Daniel Gorringe
18. Trent McKenzie
19. Tom Lynch
21. Jack Leslie
22. Tom Nicholls
24. David Swallow
25. Danny Stanley
26. Matthew Shaw
28. Kade Kolodjashnij
31. Keegan Brooksby
32. Brandon Matera
34. Josh Glenn
36. Greg Broughton
37. Jesse Lonergan
39. Louis Herbert
40. Sean Lemmens
41. Jarrod Garlett
42. Adam Saad
43. Jarred Ellis
44. Touk Miller
46. Josh Hall
48. Seb Tape