Tim English returns among six Bulldogs changes as Round 8 teams drop

Key facts

• Tim English returns for Western Bulldogs after missing three games with an MCL injury.
• Bulldogs make six changes: five omissions plus Adam Treloar managed.
• Richmond’s Sam Lalor (Achilles) and Tim Taranto (concussion) ruled out.
• Nik Cox plays first senior game in 630 days for Essendon on Saturday.
• Gold Coast’s Matt Rowell (ankle) sidelined; Suns make five changes for Sunday.
• Isaac Heeney returns for Sydney Swans after calf tightness.
• Dan Curtin named for first game of 2026 for Adelaide Crows.
• Kieren Briggs returns for GWS after suspension; Joe Fonti back from suspension.

Bulldogs overhaul lineup for Fremantle showdown

The Western Bulldogs have made six changes for Friday night’s match against Fremantle at Marvel Stadium, headlined by the return of star ruckman Tim English after a month on the sidelines. English, who sustained an MCL injury, will play his first game since Round 4. Luke Beveridge’s side has omitted five players — Cooper Hynes, Lachie Jaques, Oskar Baker, Lachie Smith and Ryan Gardner — while Adam Treloar has been rested. Arty Jones returns from a hamstring injury, and Nick Coffield and Laith Vandermeer will make their AFL debuts for 2026. Lachie McNeil and Harvey Gallagher have also been recalled. Fremantle, by contrast, make only one change: Patrick Voss returns after illness, rejoining forwards Josh Treacy and Jye Amiss. Judd McVee is ill and will not travel east.

Richmond’s injury crisis deepens; key Tigers out

Richmond’s season continues to be plagued by injuries, with former No.1 draft pick Sam Lalor ruled out of the clash against West Coast due to an Achilles problem. Veteran midfielder Tim Taranto will miss at least another week after suffering a concussion. The Tigers, already without several senior players, face a daunting trip to Perth. The extent of Lalor’s injury is not yet known, but his absence is a significant blow to a rebuilding side.

Nik Cox ends 630-day drought; Lions debutant named

Essendon’s Nik Cox will play his first senior game in 630 days when the Bombers face Brisbane at Marvel Stadium on Saturday. The tall utility has overcome a series of injuries to return to the lineup. Darcy Parish has been rested, and Elijah Tsatas dropped. Brisbane have named debutant Cody Curtin to replace injured forward Oscar Allen, while veteran Dayne Zorko returns from a calf injury. The Lions will be looking to build momentum after a mixed start to the season.

Carlton boosted by returns; St Kilda welcomes Liam Henry

Carlton have been bolstered by the return of key forward Harry McKay and midfielder Ollie Hollands for their match against St Kilda. The Blues will hope McKay’s presence can lift their scoring output. St Kilda have named Liam Henry for the first time this year, adding speed to their forward line. The Saints are aiming to bounce back after a disappointing loss last week.

Geelong and North Melbourne welcome back defenders

Geelong have received a double boost with the return of Sam De Koning and Jake Kolodjashnij for their clash against North Melbourne. The Cats’ defence has been under pressure in recent weeks, and the experienced duo will provide much-needed stability. North Melbourne have also made changes: Charlie Comben returns, and Tom Blamires comes in as a replacement for George Wardlaw, who was withdrawn due to illness after initially being named. Wardlaw’s housemate Comben will play alongside Blamires.

Gold Coast swing five changes; Giants bring back Briggs

Gold Coast Suns have made five changes for Sunday night’s match against GWS, following a heavy loss to Hawthorn. Matt Rowell (ankle) is sidelined, while Jed Walter and Jake Rogers have been dropped. Jarrod Witts and Zeke Uwland have been managed, with Ned Moyle, Alex Davies, Joel Jeffrey, Sam Clohesy and Lachie Gulbin recalled. GWS have brought back out-of-favour ruckman Kieren Briggs and Joe Fonti, who has served a suspension. They replace the injured Nick Madden and omitted Ollie Hannaford. Damien Hardwick’s Suns will need to respond after their poor performance in Tasmania.

Swans star Heeney returns; Demons confirm Petty

Sydney Swans will have Isaac Heeney available for Sunday’s blockbuster against Melbourne at the SCG, after the midfielder recovered from calf tightness. Key defender Lewis Melican replaces the injured Tom McCartin, while Harry Cunningham has been omitted by coach Dean Cox. Melbourne have confirmed the return of Harry Petty in place of Xavier Taylor (omitted), while Paddy Cross replaces Jai Culley, who is out with an ACL injury. The Demons will be hoping Petty can provide a spark in attack.

The bottom line

• Tim English’s return is a major boost for the Bulldogs, who have made six changes to reverse their form slump.
• Richmond’s injury list continues to grow, with Sam Lalor and Tim Taranto ruled out.
• Nik Cox’s return after 630 days highlights Essendon’s patience with his recovery.
• Gold Coast’s five changes reflect coach Damien Hardwick’s demand for a response after a heavy defeat.
• Isaac Heeney’s availability strengthens Sydney’s midfield for a crucial clash against Melbourne.
• Geelong’s defensive reinforcements could be key to containing North Melbourne’s forward line.