Melbourne has been dealt a massive blow ahead of its match against Port Adelaide on Sunday at AAMI Stadium with captain James McDonald ruled out with a hamstring injury.

John Meesen comes into the team to make his debut at the expense of rookie ruckman Jake Spencer, while Lynden Dunn returns to the starting line-up in place of McDonald.

Port Adelaide ruckman Dean Brogan returns from a one-match suspension, while exciting small forward Wade Thompson has been named to make his debut.

Matthew Thomas is the Power's other inclusion with Justin Westhoff (broken foot), David Rodan and Toby Thurstans (both omitted) all missing.

Reigning premier Hawthorn has regained important defender Stephen Gilham and midfielder Travis Tuck for the match against North Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday.

Josh Kennedy and Mitch Thorp have been forced out of the Hawks' line-up that is yet to register a win in 2009.

North Melbourne duo Adam Simpson and Daniel Pratt will both play despite the infamous 'Boris the chicken' saga and the Kangaroos have also recalled experienced forward Corey Jones, as well as Josh Smith.

Ed Lower and Todd Goldstein will miss for the 'Roos who have one win and one loss so far this season.

Recently elevated rookie Greg Broughton will make his debut for Fremantle against Adelaide at Subiaco on Sunday.

Broughton was one of three changes for the Dockers with Daniel Gilmore and Clayton Hinkley also coming in at the expense of Paul Duffield, Scott Thornton and Andrew Browne.

Broughton was very surprised that he was selected and said it was a 'deam come true'.

"I'm trying not to think about it too much at the moment," he said.

"In early November, I didn't even think I would get the opportunity to get on the rookie list, let alone get elevated."

Coach Mark Harvey has been impressed with 22-year-old Broughton's approach to the game when playing for WAFL side Subiaco.

"He doesn't get rattled and he has no fear about putting it on the line," Harvey said.

"He's dogged, determined, hates to be beaten and plays with the desire that you look for."