Geelong has named recruits Tanner Bruhn and Ollie Henry to play in the Cats’ season-opener against Collingwood on Friday.

Bruhn (who was traded from GWS Giants) and Henry (Collingwood) will make their Club debuts, while Tom Hawkins’ recovery from a footy injury will see the forward named in the side.

“He (Hawkins) has just had a ripping month,” Chris Scott said at a press conference on Thursday.

“We don’t expect him necessarily to be as good Round 1 as he will be as the year evolves, but he is well and truly good enough to play, and the last month has given us great confidence.”

Esava Ratugolea’s great form in defence over the pre-season has been rewarded with inclusion in the Round 1 team, while Rhys Stanley has been named in the ruck position.

The match will also mark Patrick Dangerfield’s first official game as captain, and will also be his 150th appearance in the Hoops.

Geelong will name its substitute an hour before the match.

First bounce is at 7.40pm AEDT, with the match to be televised on Channel 7 and Fox Footy.

Join Joel Selwood and Steve Hocking in our march to the G from Federation Square at 5.30pm. If you're heading to the game, be in your seats from 7.15pm to cheer on Joel Selwood in his farewell lap of honour.

AFL Round 1 Team

Club debuts: Tanner Bruhn, Ollie Henry
Milestones: Patrick Dangerfield’s 150th club game