Hawthorn and Essendon seek Round 1 clash to showcase Merrett's return in 2027
Hawthorn and Essendon requested a Round 1 MCG clash. This gives traded Merrett an immediate return to face his former club.
Hawthorn and Essendon have completed the trade of midfielder Zach Merrett. They have requested a prime-time Round 1 fixture at the MCG in 2027.
Merrett is a seven-time Essendon best-and-fairest winner and former Bombers captain. He will wear hawk colours for the first time in a blockbuster comeback.
The 2027 season will start on Wednesday or Thursday, March 17 or 18. This ends the three-year Opening Round experiment.
Carlton and Richmond are expected to play the Friday night opener on March 19 instead. Brisbane Lions have also requested a Round 2 Easter Thursday Gabba date.
They want to face departing dual Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale. He is now with Collingwood.
Port Adelaide wants a Gather Round match against Western Bulldogs with traded star Zak Butters.
- 7 times at Essendon
- Best-and-fairest wins
- March 17 or 18, 2027
- Season start date
- 3 years
- Experiment duration
Why it mattersHigh-profile player returns and venue requests shape AFL scheduling. They create prime fixtures and big-draw moments that drive fan interest and ratings.
AustraliaAustralian football fans get marquee early-season matchups with star homecomings; the 2027 AFL season kicks off just days after the 150th-anniversary cricket Test between Australia and England.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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