Veteran forward Jamie Cripps is set for a remarkable early return from knee surgery after being named for Sunday’s historic match in Bunbury against North Melbourne.
Cripps is one of three inclusions to West Coast’s 26-man extended squad, alongside Binningup product Clay Hall and forward-ruck Bailey Williams.
Cripps was anticipated to miss a month of football but appears ready to return after just two matches on the sidelines in a huge boost for Andrew McQualter’s side.
The 33-year-old has been named at half-forward while All-Australian star Liam Ryan has been named in a forward pocket after battling leg soreness this week.
Williams is a chance to return after being managed for last round’s WA Day eve loss to Geelong at Optus Stadium.
Meanwhile, midfielder Hall continues to push his case after dominating at WAFL level in recent matches, including a 30-disposal, two-goal display in the loss to Swan Districts on Saturday.
Sunday’s clash at Hands Oval will be the first AFL game played for premiership points in WA outside the Perth metropolitan area.
The Eagles defeated the Kangaroos by two points when the sides met in Bunbury during pre-season, and a sell-out crowd of around 14,000 spectators is expected on Sunday.
Bouncedown is at 1.20pm and the match will be broadcast live nationally on the Seven Network and 7-plus, as well as Fox Footy and Kayo.
