Overview

• Geelong has omitted Tom Stewart due to concussion and recalled Rhys Stanley, while Brisbane will play Lachie Neale with Jarrod Berry out after a dislocated shoulder.
• Channel Seven will show the match live and 7plus will stream it, with Foxtel/Kayo offering replays only from the evening.
• Tickets are sold out as Victoria extends free tram access to the MCG and adds dozens of extra train and tram services, including more V/Line trips for Geelong and Ballarat.
• Airlines have increased capacity from Brisbane to Melbourne, with Qantas and Jetstar adding about 4500 extra seats and Virgin scheduling additional flights and seats across Thursday and Friday.
• The Friday parade goes ahead through Melbourne Park and Yarra Park with a risk of showers, while Saturday’s forecast is mostly dry near 18°C with Snoop Dogg headlining pre‑match entertainment alongside Australian acts.