Carlton forward Jack Martin has earned a senior recall and will celebrate his 150th AFL game on Saturday night in the Blues' blockbuster clash against Collingwood.
A capacity crowd is expected at the MCG in what will also be Magpies superstar Scott Pendlebury's 400th match.
The Yawuru man has been named on the half forward flank after spending the last two games in the VFL, which included a 17-disposal effort last week.
Blues coach Michael Voss was full of praise for Martin during this morning's press conference.
"He's had some time to wait for that, but he's been an extremely important person for us," Voss said.
"We saw his impact late last year, what he's been able to produce for us and he's got that real X-factor.
"I don't think many people talk about just how tough he is: he puts his head down and is pretty scary in that front half when he's coming after you, he doesn't miss too many tackles.
"It's great to have him back in the side – I know a lot of players walk taller with him in it and I'm really pleased he gets to celebrate his 150th game."
Martin began his career at the Gold Coast Suns and made his AFL debut in the opening round of the 2014 season.
He earned a Rising Star nomination in his first season and played 97 games across six seasons for the Suns before requesting a trade to a Victorian club at the conclusion of the 2019 season.
Martin joined the Blues on a lucrative contract in 2020 and has been a valuable contributor to the club ever since, with his best form coming at the backend of last season.
However the 29-year-old has had a frustrating 2024 campaign, suffering from a series of injuries, including knee and hamstring complaints.
In other selection news, Tyrell Dewar returned to West Coast's team after a strong performance in the WAFL last week.
Alwyn Davey Jnr will play his first game since Round 12 after being named on the interchange for the Bombers in their clash against Fremantle on Sunday.
Ryley Sanders was left out of the Western Bulldogs team after missing last week's game due to being 'managed', while Matthew Coulthard has been named as an emergency for Richmond off the back of some impressive showings at VFL level.
