STEVE Motlop will play for Geelong's VFL team in a practice match against Essendon at Simonds Stadium on Friday in the hope of finding some form ahead of the season-opener against Fremantle.

Motlop missed the final JLT Community Series game due to illness at Bendigo last Sunday after playing in the opening two JLT Community Series games.

The Bombers have named a strong side with Cale Hooker returning to action after battling a hamstring injury for most of the pre-season.

Ruckman Tom Bellchambers has been named, as has Heath Hocking, Aaron Francis and Ben Howlett.

Motlop has had a solid pre-season on the track but is yet to find the consistency in games required to make his outside speed and X-factor around goals an asset for the Cats this season.

Cam Guthrie will be the other senior-listed Cat seeking much needed match practice after injuring his calf in the opening pre-season game against Hawthorn on February 17.

He was announced as a member of the Cats' leadership group for the first time on Wednesday night.

Guthrie's two brothers Zach – who is on Geelong's rookie list – and Josh, who looks set to play VFL for Geelong in 2017, will also play in the game.

The Bombers announced on Thursday that Nick O'Brien will be its VFL captain this season. He returned to the club after one season in the SANFL.