Collingwood have named their first VFL team of 2026, with defender Reef McInnes set to feature in the Pies’ opening match against the GIANTS at the KGM Centre on Friday afternoon.

McInnes, who ruptured his ACL just over 12 months ago, will play limited minutes as he continues to progress through his rehabilitation.

The 23-year-old is among 17 AFL-listed players named in the team, with the Magpie Army set to get a look at 2025 AFL draftees Tyan Prindable and Angus Anderson.

The pair – taken with pick 32 and 57 respectively – are no strangers to the VFL, with Prindable having played five games with the Brisbane Lions last season and Anderson featuring with the Sydney Swans back in 2021 and 2022.

Last year’s pick 37 Sam Swadling will line up on the wing alongside Prindable, with the West Australian to play his first official VFL match.

Collingwood NGA duo and fellow 2025 draftees Zac McCarthy and Jai Saxena have both been named in the forward line, as too has Harvey Harrison, who also missed all of 2025 while recovering from an ACL injury.

Brynn Teakle, Oskar Faulkhead and Zavier Maher will also get their first official VFL opportunity in the black and white, while Brady Grey and Ben De Bolfo will lead their side out for the first time since being appointed Co-Captains.

Max Mahoney, Charles McCartin, Josh Browne, Harrison Kennedy, Josh Bennetts, Harry Mahoney and Taj Woewodin will all serve as emergencies.

Friday afternoon’s clash with the GIANTS will be broadcast on Kayo SPORTS while also being streamed live and free on AFL.com.au.

Smithy’s VFL Round 2
Collingwood v GWS
KGM Centre, Melbourne (Wurundjeri)
3pm (AEDT)