Collingwood has named three inclusions for the Big Freeze 12 clash with Melbourne on Monday afternoon at the MCG.
Defender Harry Perryman headlines the additions, with the 27-year-old set to return from a hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined since the Pies’ Round 8 draw with Hawthorn.
Announced during the week, 2026 mid-season draftee Mitch Podhajski is set to make his AFL debut against the Demons.
The 27-year-old was selected by the Pies with pick 17 in the 2026 Telstra Mid-Season Rookie Draft last Tuesday after the knee injury to veteran Jamie Elliott in Round 11 opened a list spot.
A one stop shop for a range of rehabilitation and recovery services, as well as health and wellness facilities.
The podiatrist by trade was already familiar with the surroundings of the KGM Centre upon being plucked by the Pies, with Podhajski spending the last 18 months working at Performe Sports Medicine - a one stop shop for a range of rehabilitation and recovery services, as well as health and wellness facilities.
After finishing second in the ‘Frosty’ Miller Medal for the VFL’s leading goalkicker last year with 54 goals, the 191cm forward is currently leading the state league with 29 goals in nine games.
Making his Collingwood VFL debut in last Saturday’s clash with Footscray, Podhajski collected 10 disposals, laid seven tackles and scored 2.4.
Key forward Jack Buller rounds out the inclusions, with the 199cm tall set to play his sixth AFL match of 2026 after crossing from the Sydney Swans in the 2025 trade period.
Since his last match at AFL level, in the Pies’ Round 10 six-point loss to his former team, Buller has booted six goals from two VFL appearances.
Veteran Steele Sidebottom has been managed for Monday clash, while defender Wil Parker and midfielder Ned Long have been omitted.
Parker, Long and midfielder Sam Swadling will be the emergencies for Monday’s clash.
The match is set for Monday at 3:15pm (AEST) at the MCG. The game will be broadcast live on Channel 7, 7plus, Fox Footy and Kayo Sports.
Play on, for Neale. Donate by grabbing a digital beanie!
Match details
Monday 8 June
Collingwood v Melbourne
MCG, Wurundjeri
3:15pm (AEST)
