MELBOURNE youngster Tom Sparrow will make his AFL debut against Port Adelaide after replacing veteran midfielder Jordan Lewis, who is a late withdrawal for the clash.
Sparrow, who was the Demons' first pick at last year's NAB AFL Draft and No.27 overall, is a tough and powerful midfielder who shone for South Australia at under-18 level last season.
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He was named an emergency for the club's round one meeting with the Power at the MCG but will play his first game after Lewis' withdrawal with a hamstring concern.
Sparrow will be the Demons' second debutant, joining teammate Marty Hore, who was selected from the VFL last year, to don the red and blue for the first time.
The loss of Lewis is the only late change in the contest, with Port Adelaide heading into the game as selected.
Ruckman Paddy Ryder, who shapes as a key factor in the Power's hopes away from home against Demons gun Max Gawn, will play wearing a helmet after pre-season surgery for a depressed cheekbone.
Melbourne v Port Adelaide at the MCG, 1.45pm AEDT
LATE CHANGES
Melbourne: Jordan Lewis (hamstring) replaced by Tom Sparrow
Port Adelaide: Nil
FINAL INTERCHANGES
Melbourne: Christian Petracca, Bayley Fritsch, Marty Hore, Corey Wagner
Port Adelaide: Todd Marshall, Zak Butters, Jack Watts, Willem Drew
