- Key big man back for the Power
- Toby Nankervis set for Swans debut
- Mike Pyke returns to lead the ruck
THE SYDNEY Swans have named ruckman Mike Pyke and debutant Toby Nankervis to battle Port Adelaide big man Matthew Lobbe and the returning Paddy Ryder in Thursday night's clash at the SCG.
The Swans have made three changes to the side that lost to Richmond last Friday night with star forwards Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett suspended for one game each.
Former Tiger Tom Derickx has been omitted.
Match preview: Sydney Swans v Port Adelaide
Pyke returns to the Swans side after missing the game against the Tigers with a knee complaint.
Nankervis, 20, will play his first senior game, while Dean Towers will provide a tall option up forward for the Swans.
Drafted from North Launceston at pick No.35 in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft, Nankervis has been rewarded for his strong recent form in the NEAFL.
Last weekend the 20-year-old recorded 48 hit-outs in the Swans' reserves side.
Port's Kane Mitchell has been omitted for Ryder, who hasn't played since round eight due to an Achilles strain.
Meanwhile Power star Robbie Gray looks set to play after recovering from concussion he suffered against Carlton, before the club's bye in round 13.
Gray was slung to the ground in a tackle by Bryce Gibbs, who copped a two-week suspension for the incident.
Thursday, July 2
Sydney Swans v Port Adelaide, SCG, 7.20pm AEST
Sydney Swans
In: T.Nankervis, D.Towers, M.Pyke
Out: L.Franklin (suspended), K.Tippett (suspended), T.Derickx
New: T.Nankervis (North Launceston)
Port Adelaide
In: P.Ryder
Out: K.Mitchell
Tom Derickx (left) competes with Toby Nankervis in Swans training. Picture: Getty Images
