Western Bulldogs wingman Lachie Hunter has been picked to make his AFL comeback against Brisbane, but star teammate Caleb Daniel has been ruled out through injury.
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Small defender Daniel is sidelined with a knee issue in a blow to the Bulldogs' chances of snaring a third straight win on Thursday night at the Gabba.
Hunter is back for his first senior match since round five after spending more than two months away from the club dealing with personal issues.
The 27-year-old 2016 premiership player has impressed in two VFL games on return, racking up 26 disposals, seven marks and six tackles last week.
"He played quite well in the victory here against Box Hill," Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge said this week.
"He played in a different role to make sure he could have the most impact at state league level and he played well."
Ed Richards (concussion) is out for the Bulldogs, while 19-year-old utility Dom Bedendo will make his debut.
Father-son recruit Sam Darcy - the No.2 draft pick last November - has been named among the emergencies.
As forecast earlier in the week, Bulldogs ruckman Tim English will miss a second match after experiencing delayed concussion from a head knock during the win over GWS in round 14.
Brisbane have made three changes to their side as they seek a strong response to last week's 64-point thrashing from Melbourne.
Tom Berry, Deven Robertson and Mitch Robinson have all been dropped, while skipper Dayne Zorko (hamstring) and Zac Bailey (health and safety protocols) return.
Australian Associated Press
