What can Carlton supporters expect their team produce in the NAB Challenge? AFL.com.au's Howard Kotton gives an insight:
What’s new: Brendon Bolton has brought a fresh outlook, preaching a unified approach. The Blues are much fitter than they were at this stage last season. There are 15 new players on the list and the coach says the NAB Challenge is an ideal opportunity to build chemistry and work on the game-plan.
Bolters: Bolton has been particularly impressed with Jacob Weitering and Charlie Curnow and they are likely to play first-up. Weitering has slotted in well and will fill a role in defence and Curnow can play in the midfield or up forward. Ruckmen Andrew Phillips and Daniel Gorringe may be given game time.
Who’s back: Dale Thomas, whose 2015 season was ruined by a shoulder injury, has enjoyed a solid pre-season. Bryce Gibbs and Andrew Walker, who were also curtailed by injury, are moving well on the track and ready to atone for last year.
Wildcard: Back in the leadership group, swingman Walker is likely to return to attack, where he led the goalkicking in 2011.
Missing: Skipper Marc Murphy is on track for the premiership season opener against Richmond after follow-up surgery to repair his left shoulder. He has been named in the squad to meet Hawthorn but won't play. Lachie Plowman (hip) and Dennis Armfield (arm) are also missing.
Fantasy watch: Former Crow Matthew Wright (FWD/MID, $309.000) averaged a solid 80.3 in Fantasy in 2014 and is likely to play plenty of midfield minutes as the Blues add backbone to their young list.
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