Club stalwart Ryan Lester will make his first AFL appearance in 2023 when he lines up with the Brisbane Lions for their Round 7 clash against the Fremantle Dockers at the Gabba on Saturday.

Lester has played a key role in defence and as captain of the VFL team so far this year, helping them to record a 5-0 winning start to their season.

Lester replaces Darragh Joyce, who’s been listed as an emergency alongside Nakia Cockatoo, Tom Fullarton and Noah Answerth.

The trio are all knocking on the door for AFL selection following their strong performances in the VFL of late.

Jarryd Lyons, last week’s tactical sub, hasn’t been named.

Bounce for the game is at 1:45pm.

BRISBANE TEAM
B: Starcevich, Payne, Coleman
HB: McKenna, Andrews, Rich
C: Wilmot, Bailey, McCluggage
HF: Cameron, Gunston, Ashcroft
F: Zorko, Daniher, Hipwood
R/Fol: McInerney, Dunkley, Neale
I: Berry, McCarthy, Rayner, Lester
E: Cockatoo, Fullarton, Joyce, Answerth