ADELAIDE forward Ben Davis will make his AFL debut in Friday night's blockbuster against ladder leader Geelong at GMHBA Stadium, while veteran Bryce Gibbs has been recalled.
However, the Crows have been dealt a blow in their quest to end a 16-year hoodoo at the Cattery, with big-bodied midfielder Cam Ellis-Yolmen ruled out with a shin injury.
He joins utility Wayne Milera (back) and key forward Josh Jenkins (knee) on the sidelines, with youngster Elliott Himmelberg back in the side to replace Jenkins.
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Davis – who has signed a two-year contract extension until the end of 2021 – finally gets his opportunity in his third season on the Crows' list.
He will play a similar role to injured half-forward Tom Lynch, who will miss a third straight game with a calf injury.
Ben's worked his backside off, and we're all looking forward to playing with him - Rory Atkins on debutant Ben Davis
Davis has averaged 16.7 disposals per game in 10 games in the Crows' SANFL side this season, while he's also kicked seven goals.
The 22-year-old was the 75th overall pick in the 2016 NAB AFL Draft.
Crows midfielder Rory Atkins said Davis had been knocking the door down and deserved his chance.
"He's a high half-forward, leads up at the ball really well, gives us a great contest and fits into our system perfectly," Atkins said.
"It's always that little bit more special when guys have had to wait a little bit longer.
"Ben's worked his backside off, and we're all looking forward to playing with him."
Gibbs comes back for his first game since the round 11 win against Melbourne in Darwin when he did a great tagging job on Demons star Clayton Oliver in the second half.
The 260-game veteran could find himself with another run-with role on Cats star Tim Kelly.
"It's good to have Bryce back in," Atkins said.
"Bryce's attitude around the club hasn't wavered, so he's been great for the footy club the last few weeks."
The Crows have lost their past 10 games at GMHBA Stadium and haven't won at the ground since 2003.
Meanwhile, rookie-listed defender Jordon Butts has signed a two-year contract extension until the end of 2021.
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