CARLTON’S first AFL tune up for the 2021 season will come against the most familiar of foes.

After it was confirmed last week that Carlton would take on St Kilda in the AAMI Community Series, it has been announced that the Blues will host the Bombers at Ikon Park a week prior on Thursday 25 February.

Taking place from 11am, the match will be held behind closed doors as per an AFL directive: fans can attend the AAMI Community Series game a week later at Marvel Stadium.

It could give Carlton’s six new Blues the chance to pull on the guernsey for the first time, including Adam Saad against his old side.

It means the Blues will now have two hitouts prior to its season opener against Richmond on Thursday 18 March at the MCG.