The 2026 AFL season is set to commence with a compelling clash between Carlton and Sydney at the SCG on Thursday night, a match carrying extra weight for both clubs and particularly for Swans forward Charlie Curnow. Carlton will field a significantly revamped lineup, debuting seven players as they embark on a new era, while Sydney welcomes Curnow for his first game against his former team. The opening round promises a fascinating mix of established stars and emerging talent across the league, with several other key matchups scheduled throughout the weekend.
Carlton’s rebuild is immediately evident in their team selection, with the Blues handing debuts to Jagga Smith and Harry Dean, alongside five recruits: former Swans players Will Hayward and Ollie Florent, as well as Ben Ainsworth, Liam Reidy and Campbell Chesser. This influx of new faces signals a clear shift in direction for the club, aiming to inject fresh energy and skill into their lineup. For Sydney, the arrival of Curnow, alongside Jai Serong and Malcolm Rosas, adds firepower to an already formidable forward line. The match represents a significant moment for Curnow, a two-time Coleman Medallist, as he faces the club he spent nine seasons with before his trade at the end of 2025.
Carlton’s New Look and Curnow’s Return
The Blues’ decision to bring in seven new players underscores their commitment to a rapid rebuild. According to team lists confirmed by Fox Sports Australia, the inclusion of Hayward and Florent, both previously with the Swans, adds experience and versatility to Carlton’s forward and midfield lines. Carlton has opted for Mitch McGovern and Lewis Young in defence, prioritizing experience over pre-season signing Wade Derksen. Jacob Weitering will lead the defence after overcoming a rib injury sustained during the State of Origin match. Elijah Hollands also returns to the side after a disrupted 2025 season.
However, Carlton will be without several key players, including Francis Evans (knee), Nick Haynes (ankle), Adam Cerra (hamstring), Matt Cottrell (knee), Nic Newman (suspended), and Jesse Motlop (ACL). These absences will test the depth of the squad and provide opportunities for the new recruits to make an immediate impact. The focus will be on how quickly these new players can gel and contribute to a cohesive team performance.
Sydney’s Squad and Key Absences
Sydney enters the season with a strong list, bolstered by the addition of Curnow, Serong, and Rosas. Despite the excitement surrounding the new recruits, the Swans will be without Braeden Campbell (shin) and Harry Cunningham for the season opener. However, Errol Gulden has been cleared to play despite a minor ankle niggle sustained in a practice match against GWS. Gulden’s availability is a significant boost for Sydney, as he is a key playmaker in their midfield.
Curnow’s arrival is expected to provide a potent focal point in attack, complementing the existing forward line led by Logan McDonald. His ability to both mark strongly and convert set shots makes him a dangerous opponent for any defence. The Swans will be looking to utilize Curnow’s strengths to create scoring opportunities and put pressure on the Carlton backline.
Opening Round Fixture and Other Matchups
Beyond the Carlton-Sydney clash, the opening round features several other intriguing matchups. On Friday night, the Gold Coast Suns will host Geelong at People First Stadium, while Saturday will see GWS Giants seize on Hawthorn at ENGIE Stadium and Brisbane Lions face the Western Bulldogs at the Gabba. The round concludes on Sunday with a highly anticipated contest between St Kilda and Collingwood at the MCG.
Team lists for the Gold Coast, Geelong, GWS, Hawthorn, Brisbane, Western Bulldogs, St Kilda, and Collingwood are still to be finalized as of Wednesday, March 4th. Further updates on team selections will be available closer to the game days.
OPENING ROUND TEAMS AND FIXTURE (All times AEDT)
SYDNEY SWANS v CARLTON
Thursday March 5, 7:30pm at the SCG
SWANS
B: L.Melican, T.McCartin, D.Rampe
HB: C.Mills (c), N.Blakey, S.Wicks
C: J.Jordon, I.Heeney, M.Roberts
HF: M.Rosas, J.Rowbottom, T.Papley
F: J.Amartey, C.Curnow, L.McDonald
R: B.Grundy, E.Gulden, Ch.Warner
I/C: R.Bice, J.McInerney, J.Serong, J.Lloyd, A.Sheldrick
EMG: P.Ladhams, Co.Warner, H.McLean
BLUES
B: O.Florent, J.Weitering, L.Young
HB: H.Dean, M.McGovern, A.Saad
C: O.Hollands, P.Cripps (c), W.Hayward
HF: L.Fogarty, H.McKay, B.Ainsworth
F: J.Smith, B.Kemp, A.Moir
R: M.Pittonet, G.Hewett, S.Walsh
I/C: Z.Williams, L.Reidy, E.Hollands, C.Chesser, C.Lord
EMG: T.Byrne, H.O’Keeffe, J.Boyd
GOLD COAST SUNS v GEELONG
Friday March 6, 8:05pm at People First Stadium
SUNS
TBA Thursday evening
CATS
TBA Thursday evening
GWS GIANTS v HAWTHORN
Saturday March 7, 4:15pm at ENGIE Stadium
GIANTS
TBA Thursday evening
HAWKS
TBA Thursday evening
BRISBANE LIONS v WESTERN BULLDOGS
Saturday March 7, 7:35pm at the Gabba
LIONS
TBA Thursday evening
BULLDOGS
TBA Thursday evening
ST KILDA v COLLINGWOOD
Sunday March 8, 7:20pm at the MCG
SAINTS
TBA Thursday evening
MAGPIES
TBA Thursday evening
The AFL season promises to be a captivating contest, with the opening round setting the stage for a year of thrilling football. The focus will now shift to the on-field performances and how these teams adapt and evolve throughout the season. Further team updates and match previews will be released in the coming days as the AFL season officially gets underway.
What do you think of the changes at Carlton? Share your predictions for the opening round in the comments below.
